What is the Western United States defined as by the U.S. Census Bureau?

The Western United States is officially defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as one of the four census regions of the United States. This region encompasses the thirteen westernmost states, extending from the Rocky Mountains and the Great Basin to the Pacific Coast, and includes the mid-Pacific island state of Hawaii.

How has the meaning of 'the West' evolved in the context of American expansion?

Historically, the meaning of 'the West' has shifted as American settlement progressed westward. Initially, the crest of the Appalachian Mountains was considered the western frontier. As the frontier moved westward, the lands west of the Mississippi River eventually came to be known as 'the West'.

What are the primary biomes found within the Western United States?

The Western United States is characterized by significant geographic diversity, featuring a variety of biomes. These include arid and semi-arid plateaus and plains, particularly in the Southwest; extensive forested mountains, such as the Sierra Nevada, Cascades, and Rocky Mountains; a long Pacific coastal shoreline; and the temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau's definition, which states comprise the Western United States?

The U.S. Census Bureau's definition of the Western United States includes thirteen states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

How does the U.S. Census Bureau divide the Western United States into subregions?

The U.S. Census Bureau divides the Western United States into two smaller divisions: the Mountain states and the Pacific states. The Mountain states include Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. The Pacific states include Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska, and Hawaii.

What other subregional classifications are commonly used for the Western United States?

Beyond the Census Bureau's divisions, the Western United States is often further classified into the Southwest and the Northwest. The Southwest typically includes Arizona, New Mexico, West Texas, and the Oklahoma panhandle, while the Northwest or Pacific Northwest comprises Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.

What is the total land area of the Western United States?

The Western United States covers a vast area, totaling approximately 1,873,251.63 square miles (4,851,699.4 square kilometers). Of this, the land area is 1,751,053.31 square miles (4,535,207.3 square kilometers).

What was the total population of the Western United States according to the 2020 Census?

As per the 2020 United States Census, the total population of the Western United States was 78,588,572 individuals. This results in a population density of approximately 44.9 people per square mile (17.3 per square kilometer).

Which U.S. territories are sometimes considered part of the Western United States, and why?

The inhabited Pacific U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands are sometimes included in the Western United States. This consideration is partly due to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands having district courts within the 9th Circuit, which also covers western states like California and Nevada, and because agencies like the National Park Service, Federal Reserve, FEMA, and USGS group them with the western U.S.

What is the population distribution by race in the Western United States based on 2022 estimates?

According to 2022 estimates, the racial distribution in the Western United States is as follows: 51.9% White (47.1% non-Hispanic), 30.8% Hispanic or Latino (of any race), 10.8% Asian, 4.5% Black or African-American, 1.9% American Indian or Alaska Native, 0.6% Pacific Islander, and 13.3% identifying with some other race or two or more races.

How does the population density of the Western United States compare to the national average?

The Western United States is generally sparsely settled, with an average density of about 45 people per square mile, which is lower than the national average. Only California, Washington, and Texas in the West exceed the U.S. average population density.

Which major ancestries are reported in the Western United States according to 2022 estimates?

The most commonly reported ancestries in the Western United States, based on 2022 estimates, include Mexican (24.2%), German (10.1%), English (9.5%), Irish (7.2%), Italian (3.5%), Filipino (3.4%), and Chinese (3.3%).

What are the primary physiographic regions that subdivide the Western United States?

The Western United States is primarily divided into three major physiographic regions: the Rocky Mountains, the Intermontane Plateaus, and the Pacific Mountains (which include the Coast Ranges).

Which mountain ranges are significant features of the Western United States' natural geography?

Key mountain ranges in the Western United States include the formidable Coast Ranges along the Pacific, the Sierra Nevada in the south, and the Cascade Range in the north. The Rocky Mountains form another major, extensive range running north-south through the region.

What geological phenomena are characteristic of the Pacific states within the Western United States?

The Pacific states are the most geologically active areas in the United States. They are known for frequent earthquakes, which cause damage periodically, and significant volcanic activity, with extinct volcanoes and lava flows found throughout much of the West, including active volcanoes in the Cascade Range.

How does the climate vary across different parts of the Western United States?

The climate of the West is highly varied. Low elevations on the West Coast experience warm summers and mild winters with little snow. The desert Southwest has very hot summers and mild winters, though its mountains receive significant snow. The Inland Northwest features a continental climate with warm to hot summers and cold winters.

What is the general trend of annual rainfall in the West, and where is it highest?

Annual rainfall in the Western United States generally decreases from east to west until reaching the Pacific Coast, where it increases significantly. The greatest annual rainfall in the entire country occurs in the coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest.

How is drought associated with wildfire risk in the Western United States?

Drought is a common occurrence in the Western United States and is closely linked to increased wildfire risk. Periods of severe drought create conditions where wildfires are more likely to start and spread, leading to extensive property damage and habitat destruction.

What role did the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation play in the agricultural development of the West?

Starting in 1902, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation was authorized to oversee water development projects across seventeen western states. Dams and irrigation projects implemented by the Bureau during the first half of the 20th century were crucial for enabling rapid agricultural growth and bringing prosperity to many states where agriculture had previously been limited.

What are some of the notable wildlife species found in the Western United States?

The Western United States hosts a wide array of wildlife adapted to its diverse environments. Common species include raccoons, mule deer, cougars, coyotes, and various snakes and lizards. Larger mammals like brown and grizzly bears are found in the Northwest and Alaska, while the deserts are home to venomous species such as the Gila monster and Mohave rattlesnake.

How did the American frontier concept influence the history and culture of the West?

The concept of the American frontier significantly shaped the history and culture of the West. Major migrations along trails like the Oregon Trail and the California Gold Rush in the 1840s spurred rapid settlement. The image of the cowboy, homesteader, and westward expansion became deeply ingrained in American popular culture, often romanticized in literature and film.

What role did the first transcontinental railroad play in the development of the American West?

Constructed between 1863 and 1869, the first transcontinental railroad revolutionized the settlement and economy of the American West. It made the transportation of passengers and freight significantly quicker, safer, and cheaper, facilitating westward expansion and economic integration.

How has the 'myth of the West' influenced American popular culture?

The 'myth of the West,' often derived from real historical events but romanticized, has profoundly shaped American popular culture. The iconic figures of the cowboy and homesteader, along with narratives of westward expansion, have been central themes in literature, art, and especially the Western film genre, often symbolizing self-reliance and an American ethos.

What impact did the advent of the automobile have on the Western United States?

The advent of the automobile allowed average Americans to tour the West, promoting tourism and industry. Businesses actively promoted routes like U.S. Route 66 to attract visitors, and in the 1950s, organizations like the Cowboy Hall of Fame were established to showcase western culture to travelers from the East.

How did World War II act as a catalyst for change in the Western United States?

The World War II years marked a significant watershed for the West, driving enormous social and economic changes. Population growth surged, particularly in metropolitan areas, fueled by expansions in manufacturing, military training facilities, and university systems. The region also became a pacesetter for societal evolution, including greater racial and gender equality, and began addressing new environmental challenges.

What are some of the major metropolitan areas in the Western United States based on population?

The largest metropolitan areas in the Western United States, based on 2020 Census data, include Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim (California), Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler (Arizona), San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley (California), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario (California), and Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue (Washington).

Which states in the Western United States are considered to lean towards the Democratic Party?

States in the Western United States that generally lean towards the Democratic Party include California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Colorado, Hawaii, and New Mexico. Arizona has also shown a recent trend towards the Democratic Party.

Which states in the Western United States are considered Republican strongholds?

States in the Western United States that are considered Republican strongholds include Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming. These states have consistently voted for Republican presidential nominees in recent decades.

How has Nevada historically functioned as a political indicator in U.S. presidential elections?

Nevada is considered a political bellwether state, having accurately predicted the winner of the popular vote in most U.S. presidential elections since 1912, with only two exceptions (1976 and 2016).

What is the significance of the 'frontier spirit' in the political culture of the Western United States?

The historical 'frontier spirit' of the West's settlers is often cited as a factor contributing to the region's independent and heterogeneous political landscape. This spirit is sometimes linked to the prevalence of libertarian political attitudes found in many Western states.

Which Western states were early adopters of women's suffrage?

The Western United States was a pioneer in women's suffrage. Wyoming and Utah granted women the right to vote as early as 1870, significantly preceding the national ratification of the 19th Amendment by five decades.

What environmental movements originated in California and influenced the West?

California, a key state in the Western United States, was the birthplace of both the property rights movement and the conservation movement. It also spawned significant political phenomena such as the Taxpayer Revolt, exemplified by Proposition 13, and the Free Speech Movement in Berkeley.

How does the health profile of the Western United States compare to other regions?

The Western United States generally ranks well in health measures. From 2005 to 2011, the region consistently showed lower rates of potentially preventable hospitalizations compared to other U.S. regions. While it had a higher proportion of maternal or neonatal hospital stays, its overall medical hospital stays were lower than other regions in 2012.

What is the role of federal government agencies in managing land in the Western United States?

Federal government agencies, such as the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management (under the Interior Department), and the U.S. Forest Service (under the Agriculture Department), manage vast areas of land in the Western states. This extensive federal land ownership is largely due to the West being the last region settled, when conservation became a national priority.

What are some of the major rivers in the Western United States and their significance?

Major rivers in the West include the Colorado River, which snakes through the Mountain states and forms the Grand Canyon, providing water for the Southwest through dams like Hoover Dam, though often not reaching the Gulf of California due to diversion. The Columbia River and its tributary, the Snake River, are vital for the Pacific Northwest. The Rio Grande forms the border between Texas and Mexico and flows through New Mexico.

How has the Colorado River's water usage impacted its flow to the Gulf of California?

The Colorado River is a critical water source for the Southwest, supporting agriculture and major population centers like Los Angeles. However, due to extensive water diversion for drinking and irrigation, the river's water often does not reach the Gulf of California in most years.

What geological features are found in the Western United States related to past inland seas?

The presence of salt flats and salt lakes in the Western United States provides evidence of a time when large inland seas covered significant portions of the region, shaping its geological landscape.

What is the significance of the 'West Coast' designation in the Western United States?

The term 'West Coast' commonly refers specifically to California, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. Hawaii, while part of the Census Bureau's definition of the West, is geographically isolated from the continental U.S. and doesn't always fit neatly into these subregional classifications.

How did the development of the automobile influence tourism in the Western United States?

The automobile enabled average Americans to travel and explore the West, boosting tourism. Routes like U.S. Route 66 were promoted by western businessmen to attract visitors and stimulate industry, contributing to the region's development and cultural identity.

What is the cultural significance of the cowboy and pioneer in the historical narrative of the American West?

The figures of the cowboy and the pioneer are central to the traditional culture and historical narrative of the Western United States. Their experiences on the American frontier, often romanticized, have become deeply embedded in American identity and popular culture, celebrated in literature, art, and music.

Which major U.S. cities are located in the Western United States?

Major cities in the Western United States include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Oakland, and Sacramento on the West Coast, as well as Denver, Phoenix, Tucson, Albuquerque, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Boise in the Mountain States.

What role did Hollywood play in shaping the perception of the West?

Hollywood, located in Los Angeles, became a global center for mass media, including film production. The American cinema, particularly through the Western genre, played a significant role in creating and disseminating the popular image and mythology of the American West across the nation and the world.

How did the Dust Bowl affect migration patterns within the Western United States?

The environmental and economic devastation caused by the Dust Bowl in the Great Plains during the 1930s forced many families, including children of original homesteaders, to migrate further west, seeking better opportunities and escaping the harsh conditions.

What is the significance of the 'West Coast' in terms of industry and technology?

The major port cities along the West Coast, particularly Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area (including Silicon Valley), have evolved into global centers for media, technology, and aerospace industries. California's growth in these sectors has significantly contributed to its status as the most populous state and a major economic force.

How do the Mountain States differ culturally from the Pacific States?

The Mountain States generally have lower population densities and developed historically as ranching and mining areas, only recently urbanizing. They are often characterized by highly individualistic cultures that strive to balance urban development, recreation, and environmental interests, distinct from the more densely populated, media-and-technology-focused culture of the Pacific coastal states.

What are some culturally distinctive aspects of the Mountain States subregion?

Culturally distinctive features of the Mountain States include the significant Mormon population concentrated in the Mormon Corridor (spanning parts of Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada), the presence of casino resort towns like Las Vegas and Reno in Nevada, and numerous American Indian tribal reservations.

Which professional sports leagues have franchises located in the Western United States?

Major professional sports leagues with franchises in the Western United States include the National Football League (NFL), Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), National Hockey League (NHL), Major League Soccer (MLS), and the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).

What is the approximate population of the largest metropolitan statistical area (MSA) in the Western United States?

The largest metropolitan statistical area in the Western United States is Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, California, which had a population of approximately 13,200,998 as of April 1, 2020.

Which U.S. states in the West have no state income tax?

Several states in the Western United States do not levy an income tax at the state level. These include Alaska, Nevada, Washington, and Wyoming. California, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Hawaii do have state income taxes.

What is the historical significance of women's suffrage in the Western United States?

The Western United States was at the forefront of women's suffrage in the U.S. States like Utah and Wyoming granted women the right to vote in the 1870s, decades before the 19th Amendment was ratified nationwide in 1920.

Western United States Wiki: The American West: A Comprehensive Geographic and Cultural Exploration

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Geographic Definition

Census Region

The Western United States, often referred to as the American West or simply the West, is officially designated as one of the four census regions by the United States Census Bureau. This expansive region encompasses thirteen states, stretching from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Coast, and includes the mid-Pacific island state of Hawaii.

Shifting Boundaries

Historically, the definition of "the West" has evolved significantly. Initially, the crest of the Appalachian Mountains marked the western frontier. As American settlement progressed westward, the Mississippi River eventually became the conceptual boundary, with lands west of it being considered the West. This dynamic understanding highlights the region's continuous development and expansion.

Diverse Biomes

The West is characterized by unparalleled geographic diversity. It features arid and semi-arid plateaus and plains, particularly in the Southwest. Majestic mountain ranges, including the Sierra Nevada, Cascades, and Rockies, dominate significant portions. The region also boasts the extensive Pacific coastline and the unique temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Vast desert areas, such as the Mojave and Great Basin deserts, are also prominent features.

Subregional Divisions

Mountain States

This division, as defined by the Census Bureau, includes eight states: Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. These states are largely characterized by the Rocky Mountains and the Great Basin, featuring high elevations and significant arid or semi-arid landscapes.

Pacific States

Comprising five states—Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska, and Hawaii—this division encompasses the westernmost territories of the United States. It includes the Pacific coastline, major mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevada and Cascades, and the geographically isolated state of Hawaii in the mid-Pacific.

Alternative Classifications

Beyond the Census Bureau's definition, common distinctions include the Southwest (Arizona, New Mexico, West Texas, Oklahoma panhandle) and the Northwest or Pacific Northwest (Montana, Idaho, Oregon, Washington). The term "West Coast" typically refers specifically to California, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska, acknowledging Hawaii's distinct geographical isolation.

Population Dynamics

Population Overview

As of the 2020 Census, the Western United States, comprising 13 states, had a population of 78,588,572. The region is characterized by lower population density compared to the national average, although states like California, Washington, and Texas exceed this average. California alone accounts for nearly half of the region's population.

Ethnic Diversity

The West is notably diverse, hosting the largest minority populations in the U.S. Recent estimates indicate significant percentages of White (non-Hispanic), Hispanic or Latino, Asian, Black or African-American, and Native American populations. This demographic mosaic reflects historical migration patterns and the region's role as a destination for various ethnic groups.

Ancestry and Heritage

Major ancestries reported in the West include Mexican, German, English, Irish, Italian, Filipino, and Chinese. The region also has substantial Native American populations, particularly in reservations within the Mountain States and Desert Southwest. Significant African American communities are found in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Oakland, and Seattle.

Climate Patterns

Regional Variations

The West exhibits a wide range of climates. Coastal areas along the Pacific experience mild winters and warm summers. The desert Southwest endures very hot summers and mild winters, with some mountainous areas receiving significant snowfall. The Inland Northwest features a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Annual rainfall generally decreases westward until the Pacific coast, where it increases again, supporting temperate rainforests.

Aridity and Drought

Much of the West is characterized by semi-arid conditions, with significant portions classified as desert receiving minimal rainfall. Drought is a recurring and significant issue, closely linked to increased wildfire risk. Projections indicate that drought conditions are likely to persist throughout the 21st century, posing challenges to water resources and ecosystems.

Extreme Weather

While the West is known for its dry conditions, violent thunderstorms can occur east of the Rockies, particularly in Tornado Alley. Volcanic activity is notable in the Cascade Range, with Mount St. Helens' 1980 eruption being a significant event. The Pacific states are also seismically active, experiencing damaging earthquakes periodically.

Agriculture and Resources

Irrigation and Production

Agriculture in the West is heavily reliant on irrigation, particularly in arid regions. Projects managed by the Bureau of Reclamation have enabled extensive cultivation of fruits, nuts, vegetables, grains, and hay. California and Arizona are major citrus producers, though water scarcity and urban sprawl have impacted production. Washington is renowned for apples, and Idaho for potatoes.

Public Lands and Ranching

A substantial portion of the Western United States consists of federally managed public lands, including national forests and Bureau of Land Management territories. These lands support traditional activities like livestock grazing, logging, and mining, often leading to complex interactions between land managers and local communities reliant on these resources.

Water Management

Water resources are critical throughout the West. Major rivers like the Colorado and Columbia are vital for agriculture and municipal water supplies. Extensive dam and reservoir systems, such as the Hoover Dam, manage water flow. However, diversion of water for urban centers has led to reduced flow reaching the ocean, highlighting ongoing water management challenges.

Geological Landscape

Sedimentary and Volcanic Formations

The eastern plains of the West are underlain by sedimentary rocks from Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic eras. The Rocky Mountains expose igneous and metamorphic rocks dating back to the Precambrian. Extensive Cenozoic volcanic rock formations are prevalent in the Inter-mountain States and the Pacific Northwest. Evidence of ancient inland seas is visible in salt flats and salt lakes.

Pacific Tectonics

The Pacific states are the most geologically active in the U.S., characterized by frequent earthquakes, particularly in California. This region is also the most volcanically active, with numerous volcanoes, including dormant ones, found throughout the West. The formation of Crater Lake in Oregon resulted from a massive volcanic eruption.

Ecological Diversity

Temperate and Desert Fauna

The West's varied ecoregions support diverse wildlife. Densely forested areas in the Northwest host species adapted to temperate climates, while the arid deserts of the Southwest are home to fauna tolerant of extreme temperatures, including venomous reptiles like the Gila monster and various rattlesnake species.

Iconic Mammals

Widespread mammals include raccoons, coyotes, and cougars. Brown and grizzly bears are more common in the Northwest and Alaska. The unique fauna of the Channel Islands off California includes endemic species like the island fox and island spotted skunk. Native American populations also maintain cultural connections with many of these species.

Avian and Marine Life

Birds such as the bald eagle inhabit coastal areas from Alaska to California. Marine ecosystems along the West Coast support diverse populations of whales, sea otters, sea lions, and seals. The region's rivers and lakes are also home to various fish species crucial for both ecological balance and human sustenance.

Historical Development

Indigenous Peoples and Early Settlement

The Western United States has been inhabited by Native Americans for millennia. Major waves of European-American settlement began in the 1840s, spurred by the Oregon Trail and the California Gold Rush. This rapid influx led to California's statehood in 1850 and significantly impacted indigenous populations and territories.

Transportation and Expansion

The construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad between 1863 and 1869 revolutionized settlement and commerce by connecting the East Coast with the Pacific. Cities like Omaha and St. Louis served as crucial "gateways," outfitting settlers and facilitating trade, while the railroad itself accelerated westward expansion and economic integration.

Mythos and Modernity

The history of the American West has been heavily mythologized through literature, art, and film, often portraying the cowboy and homesteader as archetypes of self-reliance. While this romanticized image persists, contemporary scholarship increasingly examines the complex realities and diverse experiences shaping the region's identity, from the rise of Hollywood to the development of high-tech industries.

Cultural Tapestry

Frontier Influence

Traditional Western culture is deeply influenced by the historical roles of cowboys, pioneers, and Native Americans. The vast, open landscapes, characterized by long highways and railroads, contribute to the popular image of the West as a space of freedom and individualism, often celebrated in country and western music.

Multiculturalism

Bordering Mexico and facing the Pacific, the West is a melting pot of cultures. Hawaii is unique for its Asian American majority. California and other coastal states have seen significant immigration from Asia since the 19th century. Hispanic populations are prominent in the Southwest and increasingly in Northwestern states, reflected in the region's rich Spanish place names and cultural traditions.

Innovation and Social Progress

The West has been a crucible for social and technological innovation. Historically, it led the nation in women's suffrage. Modern advancements include the rise of Silicon Valley as a global technology hub and the development of major media industries in Los Angeles. The region continues to be a pacesetter in modernization, addressing challenges like water management and environmental protection.

Professional Sports Landscape

Major League Presence

The Western United States hosts franchises across all major professional sports leagues, including the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, MLS, WNBA, and NWSL. Major metropolitan areas like Denver, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Portland, Seattle, and the San Francisco Bay Area are home to multiple teams, reflecting the region's significant sports market.

Key Hubs

Cities such as Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area are particularly prominent, with multiple teams across various leagues. Denver, Seattle, and Phoenix also serve as significant sports centers within the Mountain and Pacific divisions, contributing to the vibrant sports culture of the region.

Major Metropolitan Centers

Population Centers

The West contains several of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States. Los Angeles leads as the most populous, followed by significant urban centers like Phoenix, San Francisco, Riverside-San Bernardino, Seattle, San Diego, and Denver. These areas are economic and cultural powerhouses, driving much of the region's growth.

Growth Areas

Rapidly growing metropolitan areas include Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and Portland. These cities exemplify the ongoing population shifts and economic development occurring across the West, often driven by technology, tourism, and quality of life factors. Honolulu, Hawaii, also represents a major Pacific hub.

Table of MSAs

The following table details the largest Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in the Western United States based on 2020 Census data, highlighting their population, state affiliation, and a representative image.

Rank (West)	Rank (USA)	MSA	Population	State(s)
1	2	Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim	13,200,998	California
2	11	Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler	4,845,832	Arizona
3	12	San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley	4,749,008	California
4	15	Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario	4,599,839	California
5	17	Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue	4,018,762	Washington
6	19	San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad	3,298,634	California
7	25	Denver-Aurora-Lakewood	2,963,821	Colorado
8	26	Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro	2,512,859	Oregon, Washington
9	29	Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom	2,397,382	California
10	35	Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise	2,265,461	Nevada

Note: The table includes a selection of the largest MSAs. Full data is available in the source material.

Political Landscape

Independent Spirit

The West's political character is often attributed to its frontier history and geographic isolation, fostering independent and diverse viewpoints. Historically, Western states were pioneers in women's suffrage, granting voting rights decades before the national 19th Amendment.

Progressive Policies

Many Western states have adopted progressive policies, including the legalization of medicinal and recreational marijuana, various forms of gambling, and physician-assisted suicide. California, in particular, has been a center for movements advocating for property rights, conservation, and social change.

Party Alignments

Party affiliations vary across the region. States like California, Colorado, Hawaii, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington generally lean Democratic. Conversely, Alaska and most Mountain States (Idaho, Montana, Utah, Wyoming) are considered Republican strongholds. Nevada and Arizona often serve as political bellwethers, demonstrating shifts in voter sentiment.

Health and Well-being

Health Metrics

The Western United States generally demonstrates favorable health outcomes compared to other U.S. regions. Data from 2005-2011 indicated lower rates of potentially preventable hospitalizations. While maternal and neonatal hospital stays were proportionally higher, overall medical hospital stays were lower than the national average in 2012.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Western United States" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about western_united_states while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

list of world heritage sites in mauritania

steel engraving

vertumnus

top500

province of westphalia

government of the united kingdom

References

Michael Morrison, Slavery and the American West: The Eclipse of Manifest Destiny and the Coming of the Civil War (1997)

Gary J. Hausladen, Western Places, American Myths: How We Think About The West (U. of Nevada Press, 2006)

Henry Nash Smith, Virgin Land: The American West as Symbol and Myth (Harvard University Press, 1950)

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

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI model and is intended for advanced educational and informational purposes. It is based on data synthesized from publicly available sources, primarily Wikipedia, as of its last update. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness within the scope of the provided source material, users are advised that the information may not be entirely exhaustive, current, or free from interpretation.

This is not professional advice. The information presented here does not constitute expert consultation in geography, history, sociology, politics, or any other field. Readers should consult primary sources and qualified professionals for specific applications or decisions. Reliance on this information is solely at the user's own risk.

The creators of this educational resource are not liable for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information.

The American West

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Geographic Definition 📍

🇺🇸 Census Region

↔️ Shifting Boundaries

🌍 Diverse Biomes

Subregional Divisions 🧩

⛰️ Mountain States

🌊 Pacific States

🧭 Alternative Classifications

Population Dynamics 👥

📊 Population Overview

🌐 Ethnic Diversity

ancestry Ancestry and Heritage

Climate Patterns ☀️

🌡️ Regional Variations

💧 Aridity and Drought

⚡ Extreme Weather

Agriculture and Resources 🚜

🌾 Irrigation and Production

🏞️ Public Lands and Ranching

💧 Water Management

Geological Landscape 🪨

⏳ Sedimentary and Volcanic Formations

🌋 Pacific Tectonics

Ecological Diversity 🐾

🌲 Temperate and Desert Fauna

🐻 Iconic Mammals

🦅 Avian and Marine Life

Historical Development ⏳

🏹 Indigenous Peoples and Early Settlement

🚂 Transportation and Expansion

🎬 Mythos and Modernity

Cultural Tapestry 🎨

🤠 Frontier Influence

🌍 Multiculturalism

💡 Innovation and Social Progress

Professional Sports Landscape 🏆

🏈 Major League Presence

🏀 Key Hubs

Major Metropolitan Centers 🏙️

⭐ Population Centers

📈 Growth Areas

🏙️ Table of MSAs

Political Landscape 🏛️

⚖️ Independent Spirit

🌿 Progressive Policies

🗳️ Party Alignments

Health and Well-being ❤️

👍 Health Metrics

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Geographic Definition

Census Region

Shifting Boundaries

Diverse Biomes

Subregional Divisions

Mountain States

Pacific States

Alternative Classifications

Population Dynamics

Population Overview

Ethnic Diversity

Ancestry and Heritage

Climate Patterns

Regional Variations

Aridity and Drought

Extreme Weather

Agriculture and Resources

Irrigation and Production

Public Lands and Ranching

Water Management

Geological Landscape

Sedimentary and Volcanic Formations

Pacific Tectonics

Ecological Diversity

Temperate and Desert Fauna

Iconic Mammals

Avian and Marine Life

Historical Development

Indigenous Peoples and Early Settlement

Transportation and Expansion

Mythos and Modernity

Cultural Tapestry

Frontier Influence

Multiculturalism

Innovation and Social Progress

Professional Sports Landscape

Major League Presence

Key Hubs

Major Metropolitan Centers

Population Centers

Growth Areas

Table of MSAs

Political Landscape

Independent Spirit

Progressive Policies

Party Alignments

Health and Well-being

Health Metrics

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice