Southern United States

Region of the United States

Map of the Southern United States

The Southern United States, also known as the American South, the Dixie, or simply the South, is a region of the United States located primarily in the southeastern and south-central parts of the country. The region is known for its unique cultural and historical heritage, which includes influences from Native American, European, and African cultures.

Geography

The Southern United States is characterized by a diverse range of geographical features, from the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the Great Plains in the west. The region is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the south.

Texas Hill Country

Subregions

The South is often divided into several subregions, each with its own distinct characteristics:

• The Southeastern United States, which includes states like Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.
• The Deep South, known for its historical ties to the Confederate States of America, includes states such as Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
• The Upper South, which includes states like Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia.
• The Gulf Coast, which is known for its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and includes states like Texas and Louisiana.

Culture

The culture of the Southern United States is a blend of various influences, including Native American, African, and European traditions. The region is known for its distinctive music, cuisine, and dialects.

Music

The South is the birthplace of several genres of music, including blues, jazz, country, and rock and roll. Cities like Nashville and New Orleans are renowned for their musical heritage.

Cuisine

Southern cuisine is famous for its rich and flavorful dishes, such as fried chicken, barbecue, and gumbo. The region's food reflects its agricultural roots and diverse cultural influences.

Economy

Historically, the economy of the Southern United States was based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of cotton and tobacco. In recent decades, the region has diversified its economy, with significant growth in industries such as manufacturing, technology, and energy.

Kentucky Horse Farm

Demographics

The South is one of the most populous regions in the United States, with a diverse population that includes a significant number of African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans. The region has experienced rapid population growth in recent years, particularly in urban areas.

Natural Features

The Southern United States is home to a variety of natural landscapes, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River.

Gloss Mountains

Notable Natural Areas

• The Great Smoky Mountains, a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains, are known for their biodiversity and scenic beauty.
• The Everglades in Florida, a unique ecosystem of wetlands and wildlife.
• The Ozarks, a highland region in the central United States, known for its rugged terrain and outdoor recreation opportunities.

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Linville Gorge

History

The history of the Southern United States is marked by significant events such as the American Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the ongoing cultural and economic transformation of the region.

Civil War and Reconstruction

The South played a central role in the American Civil War, which was fought over issues including states' rights and slavery. Following the war, the region underwent a period of Reconstruction, during which efforts were made to rebuild the economy and integrate formerly enslaved people into society.

Civil Rights Movement

The South was a major battleground during the Civil Rights Movement, with key events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

Related pages

• Appalachian Mountains
• Mississippi River
• American Civil War
• Civil Rights Movement

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Lone Oak in Saint Bernard Parish

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Pearl River Backwater in Mississippi

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Misty Bluff along the Buffalo River