USA

I would like to shortly describe the main US regions. The first region is THE WEST. High mountains run from the north to the south (the Rocky Mountains) and the area has a lot of unspoiled countryside popular for hiking and camping. It was first settled by Spanish missionaries but now has a varied mix of immigrants from all around the world, resulting in the tolerant, open-minded attitudes of local people. California is known for its film industry (Hollywood) and hi-tech and computer industry (Silicon Valley). The lowest point in the US is Death Valley in California at 86m below sea level.
Next is THE SOUTHWEST. This is a hot dry region, with deserts and lovely scenery (the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley…). It was home to various Native American tribes and even now there are Indian reservations. The US won some parts of this region from Mexico in the Mexican-American war (1846-8) and Spanish culture is still strong there. Texas is the second largest state (after Alaska) and an important center of oil production.
THE SOUTHEAST. This region was devastated by the Civil War (1861-5), a conflict between the South (which supported slavery because its main industry, agriculture, was dependant on this type of labor) and the North (which was against slavery because it profited more from industries which were not as dependant on slave labor). The North won, and slavery was abolished, but for many years blacks were segregated and discriminated against. The region has a mild climate suitable for agriculture and is a popular destination for retired people.
THE MIDWEST is perfect for farming – it is nicknamed “the nation’s breadbasket” with huge fields of corn, wheat and other grains. There are fewer large cities (Chicago) and not a very dense population. People from this area tend to be thought of by those in larger cities as ”hicks“ (= people who are not very cosmopolitan and spend more of their time with farm animals than at cultural events).
MID-ATLANTIC region n was settled by people from various European countries and became the center of industry. Some of the most populous US cities are situated here, as well as the US capital. New York City is still very cosmopolitan, and it is the most populous city in the US (over 8 million people). It has remained the center of finance (Wall Street) as well as culture (Metropolitan Museum of Art, Carnegie Hall...).
Last but not least – NEW ENGLAND. The first European settlers (mainly English Protestants seeking religious freedom) settled in this region in the 17th century and it became the country’s cultural and economic center for a long time. Even today, it is home to some of the most prestigious universities (Harvard, Yale…).