The United States is a large country in North America, bordered by Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. It is known for its cultural diversity, democratic institutions, and global influence in entertainment, technology, and trade. From the Rocky Mountains to the Mississippi River and the Florida Everglades, the country spans a remarkable range of landscapes.
- Capital
- Washington D.C.
- Continent
- Americas
- Region
- North America
- Area
- 9,372,610 km²
- Coordinates
- 38° N, 97° W
Country facts
- The United States declared independence from Britain on July 4, 1776.
- It is made up of 50 states, including Alaska in the far northwest and Hawaii in the Pacific Ocean.
- The bald eagle is the national bird and a symbol of the country since 1782.
- The Grand Canyon, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, is one of the most visited natural landmarks in the country.
- English is the most widely spoken language, though the US has no officially designated national language at the federal level.
Capital facts
- Washington D.C. was established as the nation's capital in 1790 after Congress chose a site along the Potomac River.
- The city is named after George Washington, the first President of the United States.
- The National Mall is a long, open parkway lined with museums, memorials, and monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial.
- The United States Capitol building, where Congress meets, sits on Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the Mall.
- Unlike US states, Washington D.C. is a federal district, meaning it is not part of any state.