North America
In terms of total area, North America is divided into three main countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The United States occupies the northern and western half of the continent. The latter comprises the vast Caribbean and Central American islands. In addition, Canada is home to a number of smaller states. Although it occupies a significant portion of North America, its total area is smaller than that of the United States. Here are some of its most popular destinations:
The southern border of North America is at the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Mexico, though the continent extends northward into Central and South America. The Caribbean islands are also considered part of North America. North America’s coastline is long and diverse, with the Gulf of Mexico and the Gulf of Saint Lawrence being the largest bodies of water indentating the continent. In addition to these, the Columbia and Hudson Rivers drain east and west, respectively, to the Pacific Ocean.
North America is the third largest continent on the planet, covering 24 million square kilometers (9 million square miles). It is bordered by the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Its major countries are the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The rest of the continent, including Central America, is known as Anglo-America. The Caribbean region is also included in the continent, although it is usually listed separately. This is largely due to cultural differences.
North America also boasts diverse landscapes, including tropical rain forests and deserts. The Rocky Mountains, the continent’s largest mountain range, run from northern Canada into the southern United States and extend to Mexico and Central America. The massif includes some of the world’s most famous national parks. Cities in North America, like Seattle and Vancouver, also boast stunning architecture and culture. So, what more can you ask for? With so many unique places to explore, North America is sure to satisfy any traveler.
Canada and the United States share cultural and linguistic similarities. Both countries are largely English-speaking, although French-speaking areas have their own distinct cultures protected by law. The United States, meanwhile, was formed from parts of the Spanish Empire and independent Mexico. The Spanish Empire called north and south America “Las Indias” and the territory of New Mexico, “Ciudad de los Indies,” respectively. These differences are reflected in the languages and cultures of the countries of North America.
Before the arrival of Europeans in North America, indigenous peoples inhabited the region. This period of history is known as the Paleo-Indian. The Paleo-Indian period lasted from about 10,000 years ago. The classical stage of North American history, from the 6th to the 13th centuries, marks the beginning of transatlantic exchange. The Panama Canal zone paved the way for European settlers in the Age of Discovery.
The western part of North America contains some of the largest oil and natural gas deposits, although most of these are located offshore in the Pacific Ocean and Arctic Ocean. Canada and the United States, meanwhile, lie in the middle of the continent, dominated by the Great Plains. Their deep, fertile soils provide rich oil reserves. The eastern and western parts of North America are also home to a variety of biomes. This diversity makes it an interesting destination for tourists and natives alike.