The United States of America (USA), often called the United States (US) or America, is a country primarily located in North America. It is the world's third-largest country by land area and the third most populous, with over 341 million residents. It borders Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. The U.S. is a federal republic of 50 states, with Washington, D.C., as its capital district. The U.S. operates under a constitution-based federal republic with a strong democratic tradition.
The U.S. is known for its cultural and entertainment influence, with Hollywood at the center of the global film industry. The country boasts iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Golden Gate Bridge. Its diverse landscape includes the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite National Parks. Recent data indicates a slowing population growth, with an increase of 0.5% between July 2024 and July 2025, primarily due to a decline in net international migration. The U.S. is a major player in global political, cultural, economic, and military affairs.