Alaska's Coastline: Fact or Myth?

Many people often wonder if Alaska's coastline is the longest in the United States. This article aims to debunk the myth by examining the data and exploring the definitions of 'Continental United States' and 'Contiguous United States.'

Does Alaska Have a Longer Coastline Than All Other U.S. States Combined?

Alaska, known for its vast wilderness, has a coastline that stretches over 33,904 miles (54,563 km), which is truly impressive. However, when comparing it to the coastlines of all other U.S. states, a surprising fact emerges.

Comparing Coastline Lengths

The total coastline length of the 30 states with the longest coastlines, as mentioned, sums up to 60,235 miles (96,886 km). This figure includes states like Florida, Louisiana, Maine, California, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and Michigan. It's worth noting that this number is almost double the total coastline of Alaska.

The 8 States' Coasts Exceeding Alaska's

It takes a total of 8 states to surpass Alaska's coastline length:

Florida: 8,436 miles (13,576 km) Louisiana: 7,721 miles (12,426 km) Maine: 3,478 miles (5,597 km) California: 3,427 miles (5,515 km) North Carolina: 3,375 miles (5,432 km) Texas: 3,359 miles (5,406 km) Virginia: 3,315 miles (5,335 km) Michigan: 3,224 miles (5,189 km)

Each of these states has a coastline that is longer than Alaska's, demonstrating that while Alaska's coastline is significant, it is not the longest when compared to all the other states combined.

Understanding the 'Continental' and 'Contiguous' United States

Another intriguing aspect of this discussion involves understanding the terms 'Continental' and 'Contiguous' United States. Many people often confuse these terms, leading to misconceptions.

What Constitutes the Continental United States?

The 'Continental United States' refers to the part of the United States located on the North American continent. Alaska is indeed part of the North American continent. Here's a breakdown of the 50 states and their status in relation to this concept:

Alaska (and Hawaii): Not part of the 'Continental United States' The remaining 48 contiguous states: Part of the 'Continental United States' Alaska and Hawaii are part of the United States but not of the 'Continental United States'. They are considered 'insular' (island) territories rather than part of the contiguous landmass.

Significance of Being 'Contiguous'

The term 'Contiguous United States' refers to the states that are connected to each other by land, forming a single geographic unit. This concept excludes Alaska and Hawaii, which do not share a land border with the other 48 states. Being a part of the contiguous United States means the states are more easily accessible and form a single political and economic entity.

While both Alaska and Hawaii are pivotal parts of the United States, they play a different role in the geographical and political structure. Understanding this distinction helps clarify the confusion surrounding their inclusion in terms of landmass and connectivity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Alaska's vast and dramatic coastline is a striking feature of the United States, it does not surpass the combined coastline of the 30 states with the longest coastlines. Moreover, understanding the distinction between the 'Continental United States' and 'Contiguous United States' is crucial for accurate geographical comprehension. By gaining knowledge in these areas, we can better appreciate and understand the diverse geography of the United States.