The Northern United States
A scholarly exploration of the distinct characteristics, historical evolution, and geographical contours of this pivotal American region.
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Defining the North
A Region of Significance
The Northern United States, often referred to as the American North, the Northern States, or simply "the North," constitutes a significant geographical and historical region within the United States. Its boundaries and identity have evolved considerably over time, reflecting shifts in national development and political landscape.
Key Demographics (2019 Est.)
Based on 2019 estimates, the Northern United States encompasses a substantial portion of the nation's land and population:
- Total Area: 625,897.06 sq mi (1,621,065.9 kmยฒ)
- Land Area: 540,298.08 sq mi (1,399,365.6 kmยฒ)
- Total Population: 111,736,936[2][3]
- Population Density: Approximately 180 people per square mile (69/kmยฒ)
Residents of this region are commonly identified by the demonym "Northerner."
Subregional Divisions
Within the broader definition of the Northern United States, two primary subregions are frequently recognized, each with its own distinct characteristics:
- Northeastern United States: Historically significant, encompassing the original New England states and the Mid-Atlantic.
- Midwestern United States: Characterized by its vast agricultural lands, industrial centers, and Great Lakes proximity.
These subregions contribute to the diverse cultural and economic fabric of the North.
Historical Evolution
Early Delineations
The conceptualization of "the North" has shifted significantly over American history. Prior to the westward expansion of the 19th century, the term largely corresponded to the present-day New England region. By the 1830s, its scope had expanded to include the Northeastern and Great Lakes regions, reflecting growing settlement and economic development.
The Abolition of Slavery
A defining characteristic distinguishing the North from the South before 1865 was the issue of slavery. Northern states had, by 1804, enacted various forms of legislation aimed at abolishing slavery. However, these were often gradual abolition laws, meaning that some enslaved individuals could still be found in Northern states as late as the 1840 United States census.[4] New Jersey holds the distinction of being the last Northern state to fully end slavery, which occurred with the ratification of the 13th Amendment in 1865, freeing its remaining 15 elderly enslaved persons.[5]
The Civil War Era
During the American Civil War (1861โ1865), "the North" became synonymous with the Union, representing the U.S. states that remained loyal to the United States of America, in opposition to the Confederate States of America. However, the precise composition of the Union was complex, as five slave-holding border statesโMissouri, Kentucky, West Virginia, Maryland, and Delawareโlargely remained with the Union.[6] Additionally, the Indian Territory was disputed. While Missouri and Kentucky initially experienced competing Confederate and Unionist governments, Confederate control in these states largely diminished after 1862.
Geographical Landscape
Spatial Extent
Geographically, the Northern United States encompasses the states and regions situated along the northernmost part of the country. This includes a significant stretch of territory bordering Canada, contributing to a shared cultural and economic interface with its northern neighbor.
Census Bureau Classifications
The United States Census Bureau provides a structured framework for understanding regional divisions, categorizing parts of the Northern United States into distinct regions:
Climate Profile
The Northern United States predominantly experiences a humid continental climate. This climatic zone is characterized by significant seasonal variations, typically featuring warm to hot summers and considerable snowfall during the winter months. These distinct seasons influence everything from agriculture to infrastructure and daily life across the region.
Constituent States
States of the North
The Northern United States is composed of a diverse array of states, each contributing to the region's unique character. These states span from the Atlantic coast across the Great Lakes and into the Great Plains.
Urban Centers
Major Metropolitan Hubs
The Northern United States is home to numerous significant urban centers, serving as economic, cultural, and political hubs. These cities drive regional development and contribute substantially to the national economy.
Megalopolitan Structures
The Northern United States is also characterized by the presence of major megalopolises, vast urbanized regions where several large cities and their surrounding areas merge into continuous networks. These areas represent significant concentrations of population and economic activity.
- Northeast Megalopolis: This is the most populated and urbanized megalopolis in the United States, stretching from Boston to Washington D.C., with New York City and Philadelphia as key anchors.
- Great Lakes Megalopolis: Primarily located within the Great Lakes region and the Midwest, this megalopolis includes major cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland, forming a crucial industrial and economic corridor.
Climatic Characteristics
Humid Continental Zone
The predominant climate across the Northern United States is classified as a humid continental climate. This classification implies distinct seasonal changes, which profoundly impact the region's ecosystems, agriculture, and human activities.
Seasonal Extremes
Residents and ecosystems in most Northern states experience a full range of seasons:
- Summers: Typically range from warm to hot, providing a period of lush growth and outdoor activity.
- Winters: Characterized by significant snowfall, often leading to cold temperatures and the need for robust infrastructure to manage winter conditions.
These climatic patterns have shaped the region's history, from early settlement patterns to modern agricultural practices and urban planning.
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References
References
- Klein, Christopher. (Feb 5, 2019). Deeper Roots of Northern Slavery Unearthed รขยย HISTORY. Retrieved Jul 28, 2020.
- New Jersey, The Last Northern State to End Slavery รขยย NJ.gov. nj.gov. Retrieved January 27, 2022.
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional geographical or historical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consulting authoritative academic texts, historical archives, or professional geographical analyses. Always refer to primary sources and scholarly publications for in-depth research and specific regional data. Never disregard established academic consensus because of something you have read on this website.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.