The 50 States

Synopsis

In 51 charmingly illustrated infographic maps, explore every state of the USA from Alabama to Wyoming and the nation's capital to discover more than 2,000 facts that celebrate the people, cities, nature and historic events that have helped make America what it is today. You'll also get an expansive guide to the state flags and US presidents.

Ghost towns, swamp tours, the center of the universe… bacon donuts, brainy berries, salmon jerky… The French Fry King, The Mother of Oregon, The Queen of Blues… be inspired by the inventiveness, beauty and diversity of the United States in this curious collection of fact-filled maps.

On each wonderful map, find:

• A welcome box with a short introduction to the state
• Key facts, including the capital; state bird, flower and tree; and statehood order
• State icons celebrating the state's people, places and history
• Six inspiring people who have a connection to the state
• Region spotlight bubbles to allow you to discover more about one particular place
• A moments to remember box with a list of significant dates and their events in the state's history

Each state's map also contains information about which states it neighbors, its bodies of water and borders as well as where it is situated in the country. Did you know that while Hawaii shares its border with no one, both Missouri and Tennessee border eight other states? Many state parks, battlefields, national forests and reservations are also included to inspire you to respect and explore the great outdoors.

So pack your bags and say later 'gator… the great States await!

The 50 States series of books for young explorers celebrates the USA and the wider world with key facts and fun activities about the people, history and natural environments that make each location within them uniquely wonderful. Beautiful illustrations, maps and infographics bring the places to colourful life.

Also available from the series:50 Trailblazers of the 50 States, Only in America Activity Book, Only in California, Only in Texas, We Are the United States, 50 Adventures in the 50 States, and Only in America.

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Northeast

* States: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
* Key Features: Densely populated, urbanized region with a rich history and cultural diversity. Home to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Boston.
* Example: New York City, the most populous city in the United States, is a global center for finance, fashion, and culture.

Chapter 2: The South

* States: Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia
* Key Features: Varied region with a blend of urban and rural areas. History of slavery and the Civil War, shaping its social and political landscape.
* Example: The Mississippi River, the longest river in North America, runs through the South, providing economic and recreational opportunities.

Chapter 3: The Midwest

* States: Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas
* Key Features: Predominantly agricultural region known for its rolling hills, farms, and Great Lakes. Industrial centers such as Detroit and Chicago.
* Example: The Great Lakes Region, consisting of Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, is a major shipping and economic hub.

Chapter 4: The West

* States: Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, California, Oregon, Washington, Hawaii
* Key Features: Diverse region with vast mountain ranges, deserts, forests, and coastal areas. Home to major national parks and outdoor recreation destinations.
* Example: Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the United States, is famous for its geothermal features, wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Chapter 5: The Southwest

* States: Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Arizona, New Mexico
* Key Features: Semi-arid region with a unique blend of Native American, Mexican, and Anglo cultures. Major oil and natural gas industry.
* Example: The Gulf of Mexico is a vital economic and recreational resource for the Southwest, providing fishing, tourism, and energy exploration opportunities.

Chapter 6: The Rocky Mountain States

* States: Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah
* Key Features: Mountainous region with stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and limited population density. Major ski resorts and outdoor adventure destinations.
* Example: The Grand Teton National Park is home to some of the most iconic mountain peaks in the country, including the Grand Teton.

Chapter 7: The Pacific States

* States: California, Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, Alaska
* Key Features: Region with diverse climates and landscapes, from the lush rainforests of the Pacific Northwest to the arid deserts of California. Major coastal cities such as San Francisco and Seattle.
* Example: The Silicon Valley in California is a global center for technology innovation and entrepreneurship.

Chapter 8: The Territories

* Territories: Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands
* Key Features: Islands and archipelagos with distinct cultures, histories, and economic challenges. Governed by the United States but have varying degrees of autonomy.
* Example: Puerto Rico is the most populous territory, with a rich Spanish-American heritage and a vibrant arts and culture scene.