Why Americans Love to Share Their State
When I first moved to Europe, people constantly asked me where I was from. I would usually just respond with a simple 'the US'. But over time, I grew tired of the back-and-forth:
'Do you mean the United States?' they'd ask, which was a fair question. As most foreigners realize, the United States is a vast country, much larger than most European countries.
But one day, I decided to take a different approach. Now, instead of just saying 'the US', I respond with: 'Because most of our STATES are bigger than most of your COUNTRIES.' This reflection on the size and diversity of the United States is just one of the many reasons why Americans are so keen to share their state when asked about their origins.
The Intricacies of American Federalism
The United States government operates under a federal system, where each state has a significant amount of autonomy. This is quite different from many other countries where the central government has more power. Typically, the federal government only deals with national issues like treaties, national defense, interstate commerce, and international trade. States, on the other hand, have the authority to make decisions that directly affect daily life.
This decentralized system can often create situations where states have different laws or programs, as seen with the case of special education. When states follow federal guidelines, they receive financial incentives. However, as my example of two states that chose not to participate in the federal special education program demonstrates, this is not always a guaranteed benefit. The federal government only covers 20% of the mandated services, leading to states making difficult choices based on available resources.
Geographical and Cultural Diversity
The sheer size of the United States adds to the complexity. Let me recount a personal experience: My mother-in-law, who immigrated from Germany in the 1950s, recently had a relative visit from San Francisco (2 hours away). This relative wanted to visit New York City, about a 50-hour drive, without taking any breaks. This story highlights the vast distances and the challenges of travel within the country.
The rural landscape of many areas in the US means that mass transit is limited, if available at all. In some regions, it's easier to drive long distances than it is to take a flight. My son, living 2000 miles away in a rural area, can still be visited by me more efficiently by driving rather than flying. A 2-day drive, totaling 14 hours daily, is often more practical.
The Experience of a Road Trip
Two examples come to mind when discussing the vastness of the US: visiting Yellowstone National Park and witnessing the behavior of bison on a trip with my in-law's nephew. This 900-mile drive from our home was marked by caution. When the nephew saw his first bison, he made the mistake many non-Americans make—running up to the animal to take a close-up photo. We quickly explained the danger and had him move back slowly.
These experiences underscore the importance of respecting the environment and wildlife. In much of the countryside, it is essential to be aware of the potential dangers, not just from animals like grizzly bears, but also from human behavior. In places like rural Alaska, it is advised to carry a firearm, as grizzlies can be a significant threat. Similarly, in many Western states, defensive measures like bear spray are recommended.
Rural Challenges and Safety Concerns
Living in such vast and sparsely populated areas means dealing with limited law enforcement presence. It is not uncommon to have just one or two sheriff deputies patrolling a county the size of one of the smaller eastern states, which can lead to slow response times in emergencies. Additionally, cell phones and landlines are often not available, meaning individuals must rely on themselves for safety.
The combination of open spaces and the need for self-protection leads many Americans to carry firearms. This is not just out of necessity but a cultural norm for those living in rural areas. Despite the risks, there are still many good people willing to help, but preparation is key.