The South

The Southern United States

The American South is known for its distinct cultural identity, warm climate, and rich history.

The South is a region of the United States that encompasses 16 states. It is known for its distinct cultural identity, warm climate, and rich history. The South is home to a diverse range of people and cultures, including African Americans, Native Americans, and European Americans. The region is also known for its unique cuisine, music, and traditions.

States

  • Alabama
  • Arkansas
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Mississippi
  • North Carolina
  • Oklahoma
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Virginia
  • West Virginia

Key Statistics

  • Total Population: Over 125 million residents
  • Largest City: Houston, Texas
  • Major Metropolitan Areas: Miami, Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth
  • Geographic Size: Approximately 1.1 million square miles

Culture & Heritage

Southern culture is characterized by its distinctive cuisine, music, literature, and traditions.

Cultural Highlights

  • Music: Birthplace of blues, jazz, country music, and rock and roll
  • Cuisine: Famous for soul food, barbecue, and Cajun/Creole dishes
  • Literature: Home to writers like William Faulkner and Harper Lee
  • Sports: Strong tradition of college football and NASCAR racing

Regional Traditions

  • Hospitality: Known for warm welcomes and Southern charm
  • Festivals: Mardi Gras, Kentucky Derby, State Fairs
  • Language: Distinctive Southern dialects and expressions
  • Religion: Strong influence of Protestant Christianity

Economy & Education

The South has experienced significant economic growth and development in recent decades.

Economic Sectors

  • Major Industries: Technology, aerospace, agriculture, energy
  • Business Hubs: Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Miami
  • Agriculture: Cotton, tobacco, soybeans, livestock
  • Energy: Oil and natural gas production, renewable energy

Education

  • Universities: Duke, Vanderbilt, Rice, UNC Chapel Hill
  • Research Centers: Research Triangle Park, Space Center Houston
  • STEM Growth: Expanding technology and innovation hubs
  • Education Reform: Focus on improving K-12 education

Climate & Geography

The South features diverse landscapes and a predominantly subtropical climate.

Geographic Features

  • Mountains: Appalachian Mountains, Ozarks
  • Coastline: Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico
  • Rivers: Mississippi River, Tennessee River
  • Natural Features: Everglades, Bayous, Coastal Plains

Climate

  • Summers: Hot and humid with long growing seasons
  • Winters: Generally mild with occasional snow
  • Rainfall: Abundant precipitation year-round
  • Weather Events: Hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms

Other Interesting Facts

The South is full of fascinating historical sites, natural wonders, and unique characteristics.

Historical Sites

  • Civil Rights: MLK Historic Site, Little Rock Central High
  • Colonial Era: Colonial Williamsburg, Charleston Historic District
  • Civil War: Gettysburg, Vicksburg National Military Park
  • Native American: Trail of Tears sites, Poverty Point

Notable Features

  • Natural Wonders: Mammoth Cave, Great Smoky Mountains
  • Space Exploration: Kennedy Space Center, Space Center Houston
  • Entertainment: Disney World, Nashville's Music Row
  • Innovation: Research Triangle, Texas Medical Center