The USA is a "union," meaning it is made up of individual states. In the name of the country, The United States of America, we see this stress on individual states united together to form one nation. Even the US Senate and House of Representatives, which make the national laws of the land, consist of individuals chosen by the people living in each state. Hence, the national government is made up of individual state representatives.
 
Because of this government structure, much emphasis is placed on states' rights. While there are national laws and national government offices, each state sets up its own state laws, roadways, and education systems just to name a few. The result is much diversity between states. One state will have better roads, while another will have a better education system. Some states thrive off of agriculture production, while others are almost exlusively industry. As a result, each state has its own distinct culture and is known for different things. Follow the links to the right to learn what is unique about each state and what it is known for.