The United States of America is the third largest country in the world. Known as the "Melting Pot" of the world, the U.S. has long been an attractive place to live for people from around the world. As a result, there is a large variation of climate and culture throughout the country. Washington D.C. has acted as the nation's capitol since December 1, 1800.

The largest metropolitan areas in the country are New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. New York City is located in the east and has a coast on the Atlantic Ocean. Los Angeles claims the American southwest as its home and it has a coast on the Pacific Ocean. Chicago is the heart of the American Midwest and has access to the Atlantic Ocean through Lake Michigan and the St. Lawrence Seaway.

The country is also known for its great expanses of untamed wilderness. For example, the population density of the Alaska--the largest state--is a little over one person for every square mile of the state. There are many national parks located throughout the country where the local wildlife is protected by law.

Whether you are interested in hiking to the tops of mountains or shopping for the latest U.S. fashions, the great diversity of the U.S. provides something for nearly everyone!