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United States

Definition

The United States is a federal republic located in North America, composed of 50 states, a federal district, and five territories. It emerged as a global superpower after World War II.

Analogy

Think of the United States like a sports team with 50 players (states). Each player has their own role (state laws), but they all work together under one coach (federal government) to win games (national goals).

Related terms

Federalism: This is the system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, like the states in the U.S.

Constitution: This is the supreme law of the land in the U.S., outlining the structure and powers of its government and rights of its citizens.

Superpower: A nation with dominant influence or strength in multiple spheres. After WWII, only two superpowers remained - USA and USSR.

"United States" appears in:

Practice Questions (7)

  • Which factor largely influenced Napoleon's decision to sell Louisiana to the United States in 1803?
  • What might be one possible outcome if Germany took a similar approach as the United States' New Deal during its own interwar period?
  • Which key event significantly escalated the tensions between the United States and Soviet Union during the early Cold War years?
  • What was a major policy difference between the United States and Soviet Union during the Cold War?
  • What economic plan did the United States enact after WWII to help rebuild Western Europe?
  • What was the primary cause of tension between the United States and Soviet Union during the Cold War?
  • What was a major reason for the emergence of two superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union, after World War II?


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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.