The United States is a vast and diverse federal republic composed of 50 states, a federal district, and several territories. As the world’s third-most populous country and third-largest by land area, its geography and climate are incredibly varied, ranging from the arctic tundra of Alaska to the tropical landscapes of Hawaii. The U.S. operates as a constitutional republic with a system of checks and balances that divides power among three branches of government: the executive, legislative, and judicial.
The U.S. economy is the world’s largest, fueled by high productivity, technological innovation, and a robust consumer market. It is a mixed economy, where a significant degree of private freedom coexists with government regulation. Shaped by centuries of immigration, American culture is a unique blend of global influences, creating a “melting pot” of traditions, languages, and values. This cultural diversity, combined with its economic and military might, makes the U.S. a major player in global affairs.