Borders of the United States facts for kids

The United States is a large country located in North America. It shares its land with two other nations. These shared lines are called borders. To the north, the U.S. shares a border with Canada. To the south, it shares a border with Mexico.

What are Borders?

Borders are like invisible lines that mark where one country ends and another begins. They are very important because they help countries know their own land. Borders also help manage who can enter and leave a country. This includes people, goods, and even animals.

Why Do Countries Have Borders?

Countries have borders for many reasons. They help keep things organized and safe. Borders allow countries to:

• Control who comes in and out: This helps with security and managing how many people live in a country.
• Manage trade: Goods that are bought and sold between countries often cross borders. Rules are in place to make sure this happens smoothly.
• Protect their land and resources: Borders define a country's territory, including its natural resources like forests or water.
• Keep track of laws: Different countries have different laws. Borders show where one set of laws ends and another begins.

The Canada–United States Border

The border between the United States and Canada is the longest land border in the world. It stretches for about 8,891 kilometers (5,525 miles). This border is mostly peaceful and friendly.

How Long is the Border?

The Canada–United States border is made up of two main parts:

• A long line that runs from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west.
• Another part that separates Alaska, a U.S. state, from Canada.

Border Crossings

There are many places along the border where people can cross from one country to the other. These are called border crossings or ports of entry. People use them for travel, visiting family, or for business. Trucks also use them to carry goods between the two countries.

The Mexico–United States Border

The border between the United States and Mexico is to the south. It is about 3,145 kilometers (1,954 miles) long. This border is very busy and important for both countries.

Where Does the Border Go?

The Mexico–United States border starts at the Pacific Ocean in the west. It then crosses deserts, mountains, and even follows the Rio Grande river for a long distance. It ends at the Gulf of Mexico in the east.

Why is This Border Important?

This border is a place where many different cultures meet. Many people cross it every day for work, school, or to visit family. It is also a major route for trade between the U.S. and Mexico. Both countries work together to manage the flow of people and goods across this busy border.

See also

In Spanish: Fronteras de los Estados Unidos para niños