226 People and Places
The eastern half of the USA is the most
heavily populated part of the country, with
many Americans living in the large cities
along the east coast. The national capital,
Washington, D.C., is situated here, as are
the 13 original states that founded the country
in 1776. To the north, the Great Lakes and
St Lawrence River separate the region from Canada.
WHY IS THE USA KNOWN AS A MELTING POT?
The USA calls itself a melting pot of different peoples
because, over the centuries, people from all over the
world have come to the USA to join the original
American Indian population. Some came as slaves
from Africa, others fled religious or political
persecution in Europe, and many more escaped
poverty to start again. The USA is proud of its
rich mix of peoples, although racial tension and
segregation continue to be major problems.WHAT ARE THE EVERGLADES?
This huge expanse of marsh and swampland in
southern Florida is a haven for many rare creatures,
such as the Florida panther and the manatee. Drainage
schemes to create more land for building and farming
threaten to reduce the size of the Everglades and
destroy the habitat of these creatures forever.WHO IS THE CAPITAL NAMED AFTER?
Washington, D.C., (the D.C. stands for District of
Columbia) is named after George Washington,
commander-in-chief of the American army in the
Revolutionary War against Britain, and first president
of the USA. Washington is the political capital of the
USA, and the home of the American president.4 FALL LEAVES, NEW ENGLAND
The large deciduous forests that
cover much of New England turn
vibrant shades of red, orange, and
yellow during the fall, or autumn
season. Tourists come here to see
this spectacular display of colour,
as well as to fish, hike, ski, or just
enjoy the scenery.2 NEW YORK CITY
The Manhattan skyline in New
York is one of the most famous
in the world, with huge
skyscrapers towering over the
city’s streets. New York is the
business centre of the USA, as
well as its cultural capital.1 EVERGLADES, FLORIDA
During the wet summer months,
alligators, snakes, and other
inhabitants of the Everglades
can move freely throughout
the national park. In contrast, the
dry winter months reduce their
habitat to the areas around the
few remaining water holes.