Virginias facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Virginias
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Region
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| Country |  United States of America |
| State |  Virginia West Virginia |
| Principal cities |
List
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| Area | |
| • Total | 67,004.97 sq mi (173,542.1 km2) |
| • Land | 63,528.30 sq mi (164,537.5 km2) |
| • Water | 3,476.67 sq mi (9,004.5 km2) |
| Population
(2019)
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| • Total | 10,327,666 |
| • Density | 154.132835/sq mi (59.511020/km2) |
The Virginias is a special name for a region in the United States. It includes two important states: Virginia and West Virginia. Imagine them as two close neighbors with a shared past!
If these two states were still one, like they were before 1863, they would have a huge population. In 2020, their combined population was over 10.4 million people. This would make them one of the most populated states in the country! The total land area of both states together is about 175,000 square kilometers (or 67,000 square miles). That's a lot of space to explore!
Contents
Discovering The Virginias
The Virginias are a fascinating part of the United States. They are located in the eastern part of the country. This region is known for its beautiful mountains, rolling hills, and important historical sites.
Virginia and West Virginia were once a single state. This changed during a very important time in American history, the American Civil War. In 1863, West Virginia became its own separate state. This separation created the two distinct states we know today.
Exploring the Geography and Size
The combined area of Virginia and West Virginia is quite large. It covers about 175,000 square kilometers. This region features diverse landscapes. You can find stunning Appalachian Mountains in West Virginia. Virginia offers beautiful Atlantic Ocean coastline and fertile valleys.
People and Population
As of the 2020 census, over 10.4 million people call the Virginias home. Virginia is much larger in population than West Virginia. Many people live in bustling cities, while others enjoy the peaceful countryside.
Understanding Their Political Differences
Even though they are neighbors, Virginia and West Virginia often have different ideas about politics. For example, in presidential elections since 2008, Virginia has usually supported candidates from the Democratic Party. West Virginia, on the other hand, has typically voted for candidates from the Republican Party. This shows how different communities can have unique perspectives.
Major Cities to Discover
The Virginias are home to many interesting cities. These cities offer a mix of history, culture, and modern life.
Virginia's Key Cities
- Alexandria: A historic city near Washington, D.C.
- Norfolk: A major port city with a strong naval presence.
- Richmond: The capital of Virginia, rich in history.
- Roanoke: Known as the "Star City of the South."
- Virginia Beach: A popular coastal resort city.
West Virginia's Key Cities
- Charleston: The capital and largest city of West Virginia.
- Huntington: An important industrial and transportation hub.
- Morgantown: Home to West Virginia University.
Related Regions to Explore
Many other regions in the United States are named in a similar way. They also group together two or more states or territories.
- The Californias
- The Canadas
- The Carolinas
- The Dakotas
- The Floridas
- History of Virginia
