South Atlantic states, Census division region along Atlantic Coast, United States.
The South Atlantic states comprise Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Washington D.C., stretching along the eastern seaboard of the United States. This region extends from the Appalachian Mountains in the west to coastal plains and barrier islands in the east, creating a varied landscape with different terrain types.
The area was originally inhabited by various Indigenous groups before European colonization began in the 17th century. This early European settlement established patterns of development that shaped the region for centuries to come.
The region reflects traditions shaped by Indigenous peoples, European settlers, and African American communities whose legacies remain visible in local architecture, celebrations, and daily life. These layers of influence create the cultural character that distinguishes each state from its neighbors.
The region has a humid subtropical climate that allows year-round agricultural activity. Visitors should prepare for hot, humid summers and mild winters, with southern areas warmer than northern ones.
Florida experienced dramatic growth between 2010 and 2020, becoming the most populous state in the entire southern section. This rapid expansion reveals how population patterns are shifting across America.
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