North America is one of the seven Continents on the Earth that covers 16.5% of the land area. It is composed of 23 countries including US, Canada, and Mexico. The continent has a very diverse culture and its history goes back to ancient human civilizations such as the Mayans. North America’s landscape is also diverse including mountain ranges, vast plains, tundra, deserts, and rainforests.
Geography
North America is 3rd largest continent by area covering an area of 24.71 million km². This large size makes it home to many distinct ecosystems with unique flora and fauna. It is also one of the most diverse continents in terms of climate, land features, forests, and culture. North America is also 3rd largest continent by population living in both urban area and rural areas. It is also very rich regarding the coastline which is around 40,000 kilometers. Moreover, it also borders with both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans which provide it vital trade routes.
Climate
The vast range of latitudes and geographical features gives North America the most diverse climate on Earth.
- Arctic and Subarctic Climates: This climate is mostly dominant in northern parts of North America, e.g. Alaska and Canada. In these climates, the winters are quite severe along with significant snowfall which creates permafrost. The summers are very short-lived and colder.
- Temperate Climates: A large portion of North America experiences temperate climates towards its southern territories. These territories witness distinct seasons in which summer is hot and winter is cold.
- Arid Climates: The southwestern side of North America is mostly arid and semi-arid. The deserts in this part of the continent experience high fluctuations in temperature in the day and night from hot to cold.
- Tropical Climates: Tropical climates are experienced by the southernmost territories of North America. In these territories, temperatures remain hotter, and distinct seasons are witnessed
- Extreme Weathers: North America is also famous for its extreme weather events, especially hurricanes and tornadoes.
Land Features
North America has very diverse land features from high Mountains to deep canyons and wide plains. Here are some of the most famous land features found in North America.
The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the most well-known land features of North America and is one of the Natural wonders on the Earth. It is whooping 1 mile deep at some locations and is 277 miles long. The Canyon is located in Arizona State and was formed over a period of a few million years. The origins of the Grand Canyon go back 17 million ago and the latest caving was done by the Colorado River which has continued till today.
The Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains are a very large mountain range often referred to as “The Rockies”. These mountains have a variety of wildlife, forests, and rivers. These mountains stretch from New Mexico to Canada and are often visited by people hiking, skiing, and camping. The highest peak in the Rockies Mountains is Mount Elbert which stretches to a height of 4,401 meters (14,440 feet) – that is half of the Mount Everest peak.
The Great Plains
The Great Plains are a large area of flat grounds that are mostly known for their wide-open spaces, farms, and ranches. These are stretched across central regions of North America. Previously, these plains were populated with Native American tribes who relied on hunting for their food and clothing.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the largest and powerful waterfalls on the Earth from which millions of gallons of water rush every minute. They are a group of waterfalls located between Canada and the USA.
Yellow Stone National Park
Yellows Stone National Park spread across 2.2 million acres is the first national park of the world. It is one of the best places to explore natural Geysers and wildlife.
People and Cultures
North America is a very diverse continent that is home to people with different cultures and traditions. It has a history from ancient civilizations to modern-day communities. Before the arrival of European settlers, the continent was populated by Native Americans. Under European influence, millions of African slaves were brought to North America and created a unique and powerful culture in modern days. Moreover, North America has also a presence of Hispanic, Latino, and Asian cultures. The mix of various cultures makes North America a very vibrant and unique continent.
Facts
- The Statue of Liberty is an iconic structure located in New York and was a gift to the USA from France in 1886.
- The bald eagle is the national bird of the USA and was chosen by Charles Thomson for the Great Seal in 1782.
- Mayans and Aztecs are the ancient civilizations in North America whose remains and ruins are still intact. The ruins of the Mayans are about 4,600 years old, whereas the Aztecs are 500 years old
