Understanding the States Not in the Continental US: Borders and Divisions in the USA

When one considers the geography and political organization of the United States, it is important to understand that not all states are located in the contiguous (or mainland) part of the country. Two notable examples are Hawaii and Alaska. This article will explore why these states are not in the continental US and how the various states in the USA are divided.

States Not in the Continental US: Hawaii and Alaska

The United States consists of 50 states, but only 48 of these states are part of the continental US. Two additional states, Hawaii and Alaska, form the exceptions. Hawaii is a group of islands located in the Pacific Ocean, and Alaska is a peninsula located on the North American continent. Both states were admitted to the Union in 1959, the 50th and 51st states, respectively.

Hawaii: An Island State

Hawaii, an archipelago of about 137 volcanic islands, is located approximately 2,000 miles southwest of the continental United States. It became a US territory in 1898, and it was admitted as a state on August 21, 1959. It is well-known for its diverse cultures, beautiful beaches, and rich volcanic landscapes. Hawaii is divided from the USA by the vast Pacific Ocean, which separates it from the mainland states.

Alaska: A Territory Divided by Canada

Alaska, on the other hand, is a very different case. Located in the northwest of the North American continent, it is the largest state in the USA in terms of land area. Unlike Hawaii, which is an island chain, Alaska shares its northern border with the Canadian province of Yukon and has adjacent land borders with British Columbia and the Northwest Territories. It officially joined the Union on January 3, 1959, and is unique in its geographical isolation from other US states.

Divisions of the Contiguous States in the USA

The remaining 48 states share a history of division that began with the original 13 colonies, which became the first 13 states after the American Revolutionary War. The borders of the 49 non-island states in the USA were decided over a period of time, extending from the organization of these original states after gaining independence in 1776. The borders were further established as new territories petitioned for statehood up until the admission of Hawaii and Alaska in 1959.

Many of these borders reflect natural features such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. For example, the borders between certain states often follow coastlines or river systems. In some cases, these borders required international negotiation, particularly for states bordering Canada or Mexico, like Alaska and Maine. In other instances, borders were delineated through agreements or compromises between neighboring states or territories.

How have these borders influenced the development of the United States as a nation? One can argue that they have played a significant role in shaping the cultural, social, and political landscape of the country. While some borders might appear natural, others have been the subject of intense negotiation and political maneuvering. These borders can be seen as both lines of division and connecting points, fostering both unity and diversity within the nation.

Conclusion

The United States is a vast and diverse nation, and its geographical layout includes both the continental and non-continental territories. Hawaii and Alaska, as states not in the continental US, offer unique perspectives on American geography and history. The borders between and among the 48 continental states, shaped over centuries, reflect the complex process of nation-building and the ongoing negotiation of political and social identities. Understanding the divisions within the US can enrich our knowledge of its history and current geopolitical context.