 The People ◦ There are nearly 320 million people in the United States today. ◦ The first people moved to the region thousands of years ago from Asia.  They are today referred to as Native Americans.  There are approximately 2.5 million in the United States today.

◦ Immigrants came to the United States for political, religious and economical issues.  Many immigrants faced discrimination when they first arrived, but their work ethic, talent and enthusiasm help them adapt. ◦ In 2004, 11.7 percent of the U.S. population was foreign born.  Immigrants are still arriving in the U.S. today seeking the same opportunities the immigrants sought centuries ago.

◦ United States has a population density of 80 people per square mile. ◦ Outside the urban areas the population is widely distributed. ◦ The Northeast and the Great Lake regions are the most densely populated, while Alaska, the Great Basin and parts of the Great Plains are the least densely populated areas. ◦ Since 1970, the Sunbelt has become the country’s fastest growing area.  People are drawn to the mild climate and growing industries of this region.

◦ The United States has experienced a movement of people from rural areas to cities.  Agriculture requires fewer workers due to the advancements in technology ◦ Today, the majority of the population lives in metropolitan areas  These large clusters lie in costal areas with strong economies that is supported by world trade.  As these areas continue to grow, they spread and develop further out. This is known as urban sprawl.

 The People ◦ Immigrants came to Canada for political, religious and economical issues.  Educational opportunities and refuge from war are a few other reasons.  Many loyalists fled to Canada to remain loyal to the British government following the American Revolution. ◦ Some immigrants were able to keep their culture and way of life.  The mix of ethnic origins varies from province to province.  More than 1/3 of Canadians identify themselves as being of mixed ethnic origins.

◦ Much of Canada is inhospitable to human settlement due to the rugged terrain and bitter cold. ◦ 90 percent of the population lives along the U.S.- Canada border. ◦ The average population density is approximately 8 people per square mile. ◦ Recently, most migration has been west to the Prairie Provinces.

 Urban Areas ◦ Most of Canada’s population lives in urban areas. ◦ Most of Canada’s industry and trade is handled in its four major cities.  Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Edmonton