Population Patterns of the United States and Canada

The United States

Population Patterns 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.

Immigration in the US 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.

Density and Distribution 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.

Urban Areas 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.

Canada

Population Patterns 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.

Density and Distribution 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 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