How Many States Are There in the USA According to Australians

The debate over the number of states that make up the United States of America (USA) can sometimes be a source of amusement rather than serious concern. However, for those who see a discrepancy, it raises questions about public education and cultural awareness.

A Common Controversy

While Australians often believe that there are more than the commonly recognized 50 states in the USA, this misconception can be attributed to a lack of understanding or perhaps a case of improper education. The Australian mindset regarding the number of states in the USA can be attributed to several sources. One widely believed theory is that they may count the stars on the American flag, a popular symbol of the union, leading them to believe there are more than 50 states.

Common Misconception

If you are a U.S. citizen, you might be surprised at the drop in educational standards if you are not aware of the actual number of states. If you are not from the USA, it’s important to look at a U.S. flag and count the stars. This exercise can help clarify the matter. There is one star for each state, and since there are 50 stars, there are 50 states.

Geographical Comparisons

Australian states, on the other hand, can provide interesting comparisons. For instance, Western Australia (WA), the largest state in Australia, has an area that is approximately 800,000 square kilometers larger than Alaska. This means that WA is larger than both Alaska and Texas combined. Similarly, Queensland, the second-largest state in Australia, has an area almost identical to that of Alaska.

Other states like the Northern Territory, South Australia, and New South Wales also have land areas significantly larger than Texas, which is the largest of the 48 contiguous 'lower 48' states.

Implications of the Misconception

The misconception that there are more than 50 states in the USA can have implications. It might lead to a lack of respect for the history and geography of the United States, which in turn can affect international relations and understanding.

Conclusion and Call to Action

While it is fun to point out these discrepancies, it is important to continue educating the public about the actual number of states in the USA. Counting the stars on an American flag is a simple way to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, is aware of the true number of states. This knowledge can foster better international relations and a deeper understanding of the USA.