How is the Southeastern United States geographically defined in relation to other U.S. regions?

The Southeastern United States, also referred to as the American Southeast or the Southeast, is a geographical region situated in the eastern part of the Southern United States and the southern part of the Eastern United States.

What are the general geographical boundaries of the Southeastern United States as described in the text?

The region encompasses a core group of states extending north to Maryland and West Virginia, along the Ohio River and the Mason–Dixon line, and westward to Arkansas and Louisiana.

Does an official U.S. government definition exist for the Southeastern United States?

No, there is no single, official U.S. government definition for the Southeastern United States; its boundaries are defined differently by various agencies and organizations.

What are some of the largest cities located within the Southeastern United States?

Some of the largest cities in the Southeastern United States include Jacksonville, Charlotte, Washington D.C., Nashville, Memphis, Louisville, Baltimore, Atlanta, Virginia Beach, Raleigh, Miami, New Orleans, and Tampa.

Which U.S. states are typically considered part of the Southeastern United States?

The states commonly included in the Southeastern United States are Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

What is the total area of the Southeastern United States?

The total area of the Southeastern United States is approximately 580,835 square miles (1,504,360 square kilometers).

What was the estimated population of the Southeastern United States in 2018?

In 2018, the estimated population of the Southeastern United States was 97,438,243.

What is the population density of the Southeastern United States?

The population density of the Southeastern United States is approximately 150.5 people per square mile (58.1 people per square kilometer).

What time zones are observed in the Southeastern United States?

The Southeastern United States observes Eastern Standard Time (EST) and Central Standard Time (CST) during standard time, and Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) and Central Daylight Time (CDT) during daylight saving time. Additionally, Atlantic Standard Time (AST) and Atlantic Daylight Time (ADT) are observed in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, respectively, which do not observe daylight saving time.

When does the history of the Southeastern United States date back to?

The history of the present-day Southeastern United States dates back to approximately 11,000 BC or 13,000 BC, with the earliest artifacts belonging to the Clovis culture.

Who were the first Europeans to arrive in the Southeastern United States, and what significant event is associated with Hernando de Soto?

The first Europeans to arrive in the region were conquistadors from the Spanish Empire. Hernando de Soto journeyed through the Southeast in 1541 and crossed the Mississippi River.

What was the first permanent European settlement established in North America, and by whom?

The first permanent European settlement in North America was Jamestown, Virginia, established by the Kingdom of England in 1607.

Which four Southeastern states were among the original Thirteen Colonies?

The four Southeastern states that were among the Thirteen Colonies were Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.

Which Southeastern states were part of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War?

The Confederate States of America included Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Louisiana, and Arkansas.

How did World War II contribute to economic growth in the Southeast?

World War II further aided economic growth by establishing military bases and increasing military production, which drew workers from agriculture and low-wage industries into a new economy.

How did Florida's population change between 1940 and 2000?

Florida's population saw a dramatic increase, moving from being the 27th most populated U.S. state in 1940 with 1.9 million residents to becoming the 4th most populated state in 2000 with nearly 13 million residents.

What definition of the Southeastern United States is used by the American Association of Geographers (AAG)?

The American Association of Geographers defines the Southeastern United States as comprising Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Which state in the table experienced a population decrease between the 2010 and 2020 censuses?

West Virginia experienced a population decrease of 3.20% between the 2010 and 2020 censuses.

Which state listed in the table had the highest population density in 2020?

Maryland had the highest population density in 2020 among the states listed in the table, with 497.9 people per square mile.

Which U.S. territories are considered part of the South/Southeastern U.S. by agencies like the FAA, ARS, and NPS?

Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are considered part of the South/Southeastern U.S. by the Federal Aviation Administration, Agricultural Research Service, and the U.S. National Park Service.

How did the population of Puerto Rico change between the 2010 and 2020 censuses?

Puerto Rico's population decreased by 11.81% between the 2010 and 2020 censuses.

Which city is ranked as the largest in the Southeastern region by population, and what was its 2020 population?

Jacksonville, Florida, is ranked as the largest city in the Southeastern region by population, with 949,611 residents in 2020.

What is the population of Charlotte, North Carolina, according to the 2020 census, and what is its rank among the regions largest cities?

According to the 2020 census, Charlotte, North Carolina, had a population of 874,579, making it the second-largest city in the region.

What are the two megapolitan areas identified by Virginia Tech's Metropolitan Institute within the Southeast?

The two megapolitan areas identified within the Southeast are Piedmont, stretching from North Carolina to Alabama, and Peninsula, covering South Florida and Central Florida.

What was the estimated population of the Washington-Baltimore-Arlington, DC-MD-VA-WV-PA Combined Statistical Area in 2016?

The Washington-Baltimore-Arlington, DC-MD-VA-WV-PA Combined Statistical Area had an estimated population of 9,814,928 in 2016.

Which Florida metropolitan area ranks as the fourth largest in the Southeast based on 2023 estimates?

The Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metropolitan area ranks as the fourth largest in the Southeast, with an estimated population of 3,342,963 in 2023.

What are the primary origins of the predominant culture in the Southeastern United States?

The predominant culture of the Southeastern U.S. originates from the settlement by European colonists and African slaves between the 17th and 19th centuries, with influences from various European groups including English, Scottish, Scotch-Irish, Germans, Spanish, French, and Acadians.

What is the dominant climate type found in most of the Southeastern United States?

The dominant climate type across most of the Southeastern United States is the humid subtropical climate, designated as Cfa/Cwa.

How does the Bermuda High influence the summer climate in the Southeast?

The Bermuda High influences the summer climate by pumping hot and moist air from the tropical Atlantic Ocean and the eastern Gulf of Mexico westward into the region, creating typically sultry summers.

What sectors of the economy have experienced a boom in the Southeast since the late 20th century?

Since the late 20th century, the Southeast has seen a boom in its service economy, manufacturing base, high technology industries, and the financial sector.

Name three major automobile manufacturing plants or North American headquarters for automotive companies located in the Southeast.

Examples of major automobile manufacturing plants or North American headquarters in the Southeast include Mercedes-Benz in Tuscaloosa, Alabama; Hyundai in Montgomery, Alabama; and Toyota in Blue Springs, Mississippi.

What are the two largest research parks in the country mentioned as being located in the Southeast?

The two largest research parks in the country mentioned as being located in the Southeast are Research Triangle Park in North Carolina and Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, Alabama.

What is the significance of the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) in Tullahoma, Tennessee?

The Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) in Tullahoma, Tennessee, is significant because it houses the most advanced and largest complex of flight simulation test facilities in the world.

Where is the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory located, and what is its distinction?

The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory is located in Tallahassee, Florida, and it is the largest laboratory in the world dedicated to the study of magnetism.

Name five public universities located in the Southeastern United States mentioned in the text.

Five public universities located in the Southeastern United States mentioned in the text are Auburn University, Clemson University, University of Florida, University of Georgia, and University of Virginia.

Which university in the Southeast is noted for being the nation's only NSF-funded Industry/University Cooperative Research Center for Fuel Cells?

The University of South Carolina is noted as the nation's only National Science Foundation-funded Industry/University Cooperative Research Center for Fuel Cells.

Name five private universities located in the Southeastern United States mentioned in the text.

Five private universities located in the Southeastern United States mentioned in the text are Duke University, Emory University, Georgetown University, Johns Hopkins University, and Vanderbilt University.

Which historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are listed as the three largest in the region?

The three largest historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the region listed are Florida A&M University, Howard University, and North Carolina A&T State University.

How many National Football League (NFL) franchises are located in the Southeastern United States?

There are nine National Football League (NFL) franchises located across the Southeastern United States.

Which professional sports leagues are represented by teams in the Southeast, and how many teams does each have?

The Southeastern United States has professional teams in the National Football League (9 teams), National Basketball Association (7 teams), Major League Baseball (5 teams), National Hockey League (5 teams), and Major League Soccer (6 clubs).

Name three Major League Baseball (MLB) teams located in the Southeast.

Three Major League Baseball teams located in the Southeast are the Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, and Miami Marlins.

Which National Hockey League (NHL) franchises are based in the Southeast?

The National Hockey League (NHL) franchises based in the Southeast are the Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers, Nashville Predators, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Washington Capitals.

Where are the majority of NASCAR teams headquartered, and what is the significance of the Charlotte area in this sport?

The majority of NASCAR teams are headquartered in the Charlotte area, which also serves as the location for the sport's operations headquarters and media outlets.

Which two of the three American Triple Crown horse races are hosted in the Southeastern United States?

The Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky, and the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore, Maryland, are the two legs of the American Triple Crown hosted in the Southeastern United States.

Name three universities that are part of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and are located in the Southeast.

Three universities that are part of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and located in the Southeast are Duke University, Florida State University, and the University of Virginia.

Which universities are members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) as listed in the text?

The universities listed as members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) are Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, LSU, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Vanderbilt.

What are some notable college football bowl games held in Southeastern cities?

Notable college football bowl games held in Southeastern cities include the Sugar Bowl, Orange Bowl, Peach Bowl, Citrus Bowl, and Music City Bowl.

What are some related geographical or ecological terms associated with the Southeastern United States listed in the "See also" section?

Related terms associated with the Southeastern United States include Appalachia, the Black Belt in the American South, the Deep South, Hammock (ecology), Indigenous peoples of the Southeastern Woodlands, Southeastern conifer forests, Southeastern mixed forests, and the Upland South.

What organization is responsible for the Flora Atlas of the Southeastern United States?

The Flora Atlas of the Southeastern United States is provided by the North Carolina Botanical Garden & University of North Carolina Herbarium (NCU).

What is the title and source of the study on sea level changes in the Southeastern United States mentioned in the external links?

The study on sea level changes in the Southeastern United States mentioned is titled Sea Level Changes in the Southeastern United States. Past, Present, and Future, and it is from the University of South Florida, published in August 2011.

Southeastern United States Wiki: The Southeastern Mosaic: A Comprehensive Regional Study

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Defining the Region

Geographical Scope

The Southeastern United States, often referred to as the American Southeast or simply the Southeast, is a distinct geographical area situated in the eastern part of the Southern United States and the southern part of the Eastern United States. Its precise boundaries are subject to varying definitions across different organizations and agencies.

Core and Extended Definitions

A commonly accepted core includes states reaching north to Maryland and West Virginia, bordering the Ohio River and the Mason–Dixon line, and extending west to Arkansas and Louisiana. However, definitions can expand to include states like Delaware, Missouri, and U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, reflecting diverse regional interpretations.

Historical Tapestry

Ancient Roots and Colonial Beginnings

The region's history traces back to approximately 11,000 BC, with early artifacts from the Clovis culture. Indigenous peoples inhabited the area for millennia before European arrival. The Spanish conquistadors were among the first Europeans, with Hernando de Soto exploring in 1541. England established the first permanent European settlement at Jamestown, Virginia, in 1607.

Nation Building and Conflict

Several Southeastern states were integral to the Thirteen Colonies that declared independence from Great Britain. During the American Civil War, many of these states formed the Confederate States of America. The post-war Reconstruction era and the subsequent Jim Crow laws marked periods of significant social and political upheaval, leading to widespread segregation.

Modern Transformation

The mid-to-late 20th century witnessed substantial economic and demographic shifts. New Deal policies, World War II, and federal investments in defense and space programs spurred industrial growth. The region experienced significant population influx, particularly in states like Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina, transforming it into one of the nation's fastest-growing economic areas.

Geographical Framework

Federal and Organizational Definitions

The U.S. Geological Survey defines the Southeast to include Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Virginia. The U.S. Census Bureau uses a broader definition for "the South," which it subdivides, while organizations like the American Association of Geographers offer their own specific inclusions.

Key States and Territories

The region encompasses a diverse array of states, each contributing unique geographical and cultural elements. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, located southeast of Florida, are also recognized as part of the region by various federal agencies, adding an important territorial dimension.

States and territories commonly included:

Alabama
Arkansas
Florida
Georgia
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Mississippi
North Carolina
South Carolina
Tennessee
Virginia
West Virginia
Puerto Rico
U.S. Virgin Islands

Demographic Landscape

Population Centers

As of the 2020 census, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina stand out as the most populous states within the region. The population distribution reflects significant growth and urbanization, with major metropolitan areas serving as economic and cultural hubs.

State	2020 Population	Change (2010-2020)	Density (per sq mi)
Florida	21,538,187	+14.56%	401.6
Georgia	10,711,908	+10.57%	186.3
North Carolina	10,439,388	+9.48%	214.7
Tennessee	6,910,840	+8.90%	167.6
Virginia	8,631,393	+7.88%	218.6
Maryland	6,177,224	+6.99%	497.9
Alabama	5,024,279	+5.12%	99.2
South Carolina	5,118,425	+10.66%	170.3
Louisiana	4,657,757	+2.74%	107.8
Kentucky	4,505,836	+3.84%	114.1
Mississippi	2,961,279	-0.20%	63.1
Arkansas	3,011,524	+3.28%	57.9
West Virginia	1,793,716	-3.20%	74.6

Urban Centers and Metropolitan Influence

Major cities like Jacksonville, Charlotte, Washington D.C., Nashville, and Atlanta anchor significant metropolitan areas. These urban centers are critical drivers of the region's economy and culture, with extensive Combined Statistical Areas (CSAs) reflecting interconnected economic activity and population concentration.

Prominent cities by 2020 population:

Jacksonville, FL (949,611)
Charlotte, NC (874,579)
Washington, D.C. (689,545)
Nashville, TN (689,447)
Memphis, TN (633,104)
Louisville, KY (633,045)
Baltimore, MD (585,708)
Atlanta, GA (463,878)
Virginia Beach, VA (452,745)
Raleigh, NC (451,066)

Key Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) by 2023 estimate:

Atlanta–Sandy Springs–Roswell, GA (6,307,261)
Washington–Arlington–Alexandria, DC–VA–MD–WV (6,304,975)
Miami–Fort Lauderdale–West Palm Beach, FL (6,183,199)
Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater, FL (3,342,963)
Baltimore–Columbia–Towson, MD (2,834,316)

Cultural Synthesis

European and African Influences

The region's culture is a rich amalgamation stemming from early European settlers (English, Scottish, Scotch-Irish, German, Spanish, French, Acadians) and the significant presence of African slaves. This historical interplay has shaped distinct traditions, dialects, and social structures.

The Evolving 'New South'

In recent decades, the Southeast has embraced a "New South" identity, characterized by economic dynamism and increasing multiculturalism. While African Americans remain a dominant demographic, the region's growing diversity reflects ongoing societal evolution and integration.

Climate Characteristics

Subtropical and Tropical Zones

The predominant climate is humid subtropical (Cfa/Cwa), marked by hot, humid summers. As one moves southward into Florida, the climate transitions to tropical. The Bermuda High significantly influences weather patterns, drawing moist air from the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.

Seasonal Patterns

Summers are generally hot and humid across the region, with rainfall often occurring in intense, short-lived downpours. Winter conditions vary from cool in the northern areas to mild and warm along the Gulf Coast and southern Florida. Rainfall patterns exhibit seasonal concentration, with drier winters in the south and peak precipitation in winter and spring in the mid-South.

Economic Engine

Diversified Industries

The Southeast boasts a robust and diversified economy, excelling in service industries, manufacturing, high technology, and finance. Key sectors include tourism, automotive production, aerospace, and research and development, contributing to significant economic growth and job creation.

Corporate Hubs and Innovation

Major corporations and research parks are headquartered throughout the region. Cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, and the Research Triangle Park area are vital centers for business and innovation. This economic vitality has led to low unemployment rates in many areas, though pockets of high poverty persist.

Notable economic contributors:

Automotive Manufacturing: Plants by Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, BMW, and Volkswagen.
Research & Development: Research Triangle Park (NC), Cummings Research Park (AL).
Corporate Headquarters: Bank of America, FedEx, Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, UPS, Walmart.
Major Sectors: Tourism, finance, technology, aerospace.

Academic Excellence

Premier Public Universities

The Southeast is home to numerous highly-regarded public research universities. These institutions are significant centers for innovation, contributing substantially to scientific advancement, technological development, and regional economic growth.

Prominent public institutions include:

Auburn University
Clemson University
Florida State University
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
Louisiana State University
University of Alabama
University of Florida
University of Georgia
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of Tennessee
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech

Esteemed Private Institutions and HBCUs

The region also boasts world-class private universities and a significant number of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). These institutions foster diverse academic environments and play a crucial role in higher education and research.

Notable private universities and HBCUs:

Duke University
Emory University
Georgetown University
Johns Hopkins University
Vanderbilt University
Wake Forest University
Florida A&M University (HBCU)
Howard University (HBCU)
North Carolina A&T State University (HBCU)

Sports and Recreation

Professional Leagues Dominance

The Southeast is a powerhouse for professional sports, hosting numerous franchises across major leagues. The National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA), Major League Baseball (MLB), and National Hockey League (NHL) all have a strong presence, with teams in major cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, and Nashville.

Motorsports and College Athletics

The region is a significant hub for motorsports, particularly NASCAR, with many team headquarters and tracks located here. College athletics, especially football and basketball, are deeply ingrained in the regional culture, with powerhouse conferences like the SEC and ACC dominating national attention.

Key professional and collegiate sports entities:

NFL: Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Washington Commanders.
NBA: Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, New Orleans Pelicans, Orlando Magic, Washington Wizards.
MLB: Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Washington Nationals.
NHL: Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers, Nashville Predators, Tampa Bay Lightning, Washington Capitals.
NASCAR: Numerous team headquarters and major tracks.
College Conferences: ACC, SEC.

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References

Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia are often labeled in other regional sections of the United States. However, since they are also often included in the Southeastern U.S. definition, they are listed here.

Excludes Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands

Historical Population Change Data (1910â2020). census.gov. Retrieved April 3, 2022.

The World Factbook CIA World Factbook. U.S. Virgin Islands. Retrieved July 5, 2020.

The World Factbook CIA World Factbook. Puerto Rico. Retrieved July 5, 2020.

Number of U.S. companies listed in the Fortune 500 ranking in 2020, by state | Statista. Retrieved February 13, 2021.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Southeastern United States Wikipedia page

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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 advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding geography, history, economics, or any other field. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Southeastern Mosaic

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining the Region 📍

🗺️ Geographical Scope

🌐 Core and Extended Definitions

Historical Tapestry 📜

⏳ Ancient Roots and Colonial Beginnings

⚔️ Nation Building and Conflict

📈 Modern Transformation

Geographical Framework 🌍

🇺🇸 Federal and Organizational Definitions

📊 Key States and Territories

Demographic Landscape 👥

📈 Population Centers

🏙️ Urban Centers and Metropolitan Influence

Cultural Synthesis 🎭

🤝 European and African Influences

🌟 The Evolving 'New South'

Climate Characteristics ☀️

🌡️ Subtropical and Tropical Zones

🌧️ Seasonal Patterns

Economic Engine 💰

🏭 Diversified Industries

🏢 Corporate Hubs and Innovation

Academic Excellence 🎓

🏛️ Premier Public Universities

🌟 Esteemed Private Institutions and HBCUs

Sports and Recreation 🏆

🏈 Professional Leagues Dominance

⚽ Motorsports and College Athletics

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining the Region

Geographical Scope

Core and Extended Definitions

Historical Tapestry

Ancient Roots and Colonial Beginnings

Nation Building and Conflict

Modern Transformation

Geographical Framework

Federal and Organizational Definitions

Key States and Territories

Demographic Landscape

Population Centers

Urban Centers and Metropolitan Influence

Cultural Synthesis

European and African Influences

The Evolving 'New South'

Climate Characteristics

Subtropical and Tropical Zones

Seasonal Patterns

Economic Engine

Diversified Industries

Corporate Hubs and Innovation

Academic Excellence

Premier Public Universities

Esteemed Private Institutions and HBCUs

Sports and Recreation

Professional Leagues Dominance

Motorsports and College Athletics

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice