United States Profile
A complete portrait of the world's greatest nation
Official Name
United States of America
Capital
Washington, D.C.
Largest City
New York City
Government
Federal Presidential Constitutional Republic
Population
~340 million (2024)
Area
9.834 million km² (3rd largest)
Etymology and National Identity
Origin of the Name
The name "United States of America" emerged during the American Revolution. In 1775, the Second Continental Congress referred to the colonies as "United Colonies" in early documents. The Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776) used "the thirteen united States of America." On September 9, 1776, Congress officially adopted "United States of America" to replace "United Colonies." The Articles of Confederation (ratified 1781) formalized it in Article I, and the 1787 Constitution retained the name, emphasizing the union of states.
Founding Symbols and Iconography
The Great Seal of the United States