When it comes to the United States of America, the first thing that comes to mind is the 50 states that make up this vast country. However, two of these states, Alaska and Hawaii, are not part of the contiguous landmass of the United States. These states are often overlooked in the grand scheme of things, but they have a unique history and culture that deserves recognition.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
When it comes to the United States of America, the first thing that comes to mind is the 50 states that make up this vast country. However, two of these states, Alaska and Hawaii, are not part of the contiguous landmass of the United States. These states are often overlooked in the grand scheme of things, but they have a unique history and culture that deserves recognition.
The History of Alaska
Alaska is the largest state in the United States by area and is located in the northwest corner of the continent. The state was purchased from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million, which was considered a bargain at the time. Alaska was not officially made a state until 1959, making it the 49th state to join the union.
Alaska has a rich history, including being home to many indigenous peoples for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. The state's economy has been heavily based on fishing, mining, and oil production, making it an important contributor to the nation's economy.
The History of Hawaii
Hawaii, on the other hand, is a group of islands located in the Pacific Ocean. It was annexed by the United States in 1898 and became a state in 1959, making it the 50th state to be added to the union. Hawaii has a unique culture that is heavily influenced by its Polynesian roots.
The state's economy has been based on tourism, agriculture, and military production. Hawaii is also home to many famous landmarks, such as the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the active volcano, Kilauea.
Question and Answer
What makes Alaska and Hawaii unique from the other states?
Alaska and Hawaii are unique from the other states in several ways. Alaska is the largest state in the United States and is not connected to the contiguous landmass of the country. Hawaii, on the other hand, is a group of islands located in the Pacific Ocean.
What is the history of Alaska and Hawaii?
Alaska was purchased from Russia in 1867 and became a state in 1959. The state has a rich history, including being home to many indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Hawaii was annexed by the United States in 1898 and became a state in 1959. Its culture is heavily influenced by its Polynesian roots.
What are the economies of Alaska and Hawaii based on?
Alaska's economy is heavily based on fishing, mining, and oil production. The state is an important contributor to the nation's economy. Hawaii's economy is based on tourism, agriculture, and military production.
Conclusion
Alaska and Hawaii may not be part of the contiguous landmass of the United States, but they have a unique history, culture, and economy that deserves recognition. These states are often overlooked, but they are important contributors to the nation's economy and have landmark sites that are worth exploring. As we continue to explore the map of the United States, it is important to remember the diversity of the country and the uniqueness of each state.
