The United States of America is a vast country, covering a land area of 9.8 million square kilometers. It is the third largest country in the world, after Russia and Canada. The USA consists of 50 states, each with its own distinct culture and geography. However, the USA map also includes several territories, which are not part of the 50 states. In this article, we will explore the USA map including territories in detail.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The United States of America is a vast country, covering a land area of 9.8 million square kilometers. It is the third largest country in the world, after Russia and Canada. The USA consists of 50 states, each with its own distinct culture and geography. However, the USA map also includes several territories, which are not part of the 50 states. In this article, we will explore the USA map including territories in detail.
What Are the USA Territories?
The USA territories are regions that are under the jurisdiction of the United States government but are not part of any of the 50 states. There are five inhabited territories and nine uninhabited territories. The five inhabited territories are:
- Puerto Rico
- U.S. Virgin Islands
- American Samoa
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Guam
The nine uninhabited territories are:
- Baker Island
- Howland Island
- Jarvis Island
- Johnston Atoll
- Kingman Reef
- Midway Atoll
- Navassa Island
- Palmyra Atoll
- Wake Island
How Are the USA Territories Governed?
The USA territories are not governed in the same way as the 50 states. The territories are under the jurisdiction of the federal government, but they do not have the same level of representation in Congress as the states. The territories have a delegate in the House of Representatives, but the delegate cannot vote on legislation. The territories also do not have voting rights in presidential elections.
Each territory has its own government, which is overseen by the federal government. The territories have their own constitutions and laws, but these can be overruled by federal laws. The territories also receive funding from the federal government, which is used to provide services such as healthcare and education.
Why Does the USA Have Territories?
The USA acquired its territories through various means, such as purchase, conquest, and annexation. The territories have strategic and economic value to the USA, such as military bases, natural resources, and tourism. The territories also have cultural and historical significance, as they are home to indigenous populations and have unique traditions and languages.
What Is the Future of the USA Territories?
The future of the USA territories is a topic of debate and discussion. Some people believe that the territories should become independent countries, while others believe that they should become states. There are also proposals for the territories to have more autonomy and self-governance, such as allowing them to vote in presidential elections and have more representation in Congress.
Conclusion
The USA map including territories is a complex and fascinating topic. The territories have a unique place in the USA's history and culture, and they continue to play an important role in the country's economy and national security. Understanding the USA territories is essential for anyone who wants to explore the diversity and richness of this great country.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the five inhabited territories of the USA?
A: The five inhabited territories of the USA are Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam.
Q: How are the USA territories governed?
A: The USA territories are under the jurisdiction of the federal government, but they have their own governments and laws. The territories do not have the same level of representation in Congress as the states, and they do not have voting rights in presidential elections.
Q: Why does the USA have territories?
A: The USA acquired its territories through various means, such as purchase, conquest, and annexation. The territories have strategic and economic value to the USA, as well as cultural and historical significance.