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The Impact of Splitting the US into Three Coasts: Can We Survive Losing the West or East Coast?

January 06, 2025Culture2485
Introduction The question of whether the United States would be better

Introduction

The question of whether the United States would be better off without losing the East Coast or the West Coast is a complex one. Historically, the US has been a unified nation, but what would happen if it were to split? This article explores the implications of such a scenario, focusing on the economic, political, and social impacts of losing the West Coast and the Eastern US.

Understanding the Coasts

The US can be divided into three distinct regions: the Western US, the Central US, and the Eastern US. Each region has unique characteristics that make it a potential candidate for independence, but none should be considered as being more critical than the others. However, each coast, due to its significance, poses a different challenge to the US as a whole.

The Western US

The Western US, comprising California, Oregon, and Washington, is a land of abundance and innovation. With a combined population of around 50 million, it is a powerhouse with a GDP that matches that of France. Here, agriculture thrives, ports are excellent, and industries such as technology and wine production are thriving. California, with its population of nearly 40 million, could hold its own as an independent nation, given its resources and infrastructure. The key challenge for the Western US is its reliance on water, which Oregon and Washington can provide through their abundant resources.

The Central US

The Central US, including the state between the Western US and the Mississippi River, is another key region. It is rich in agriculture but sparsely populated, making it a versatile but less economically powerful area.

The Eastern US

The Eastern US, also known as The United States, is the original land of the nation. It is home to many of the country's most influential cities, including Washington DC, New York, and Boston. This region has dominant cultural and political power and holds the majority of the nation's historical significance. However, it faces challenges such as balancing budgets and managing entitlement programs.

Pros and Cons of Splitting

The idea of splitting the US into three regions has both pros and cons. Losing the West Coast, for instance, could solve many issues related to California, such as managing its large population and its significant economic drain. California, with its support for liberal policies, is a key stronghold for Democrats, giving them a strong power base.

Impact on Political Dynamics

Shedding the West Coast could give Republicans the confidence to curb entitlement programs and balance the budget without the fear of upsetting the welfare masses. However, losing the west would come with its own set of problems, including the loss of significant cultural and economic power bases.

Loss of Major Cities

At the heart of the debate is the question of whether to preserve the big cities on both coasts. If Democrats lost their power base, the West would be severely weakened. On the other hand, without the massive influence of cities like New York and Boston, there might be less resistance to budget balancing efforts. However, the eastern coast, particularly with the absence of Massachusetts and New York City, would still maintain a significant impact due to the continued presence of Washington DC, which plays a crucial role in national governance.

Conclusion

The decision to split the US into three coastal regions is not a simple matter. Each coast has its unique strengths and challenges, and the loss of either would have far-reaching consequences. While the Economic might, cultural richness, and political influence of the Western and Eastern US regions are significant, the central US, while less powerful, still holds a critical balance and presence. The country's future would depend on how these three regions navigate the challenges and pursue cooperation and unity.