Musings on America -

As we near the end of having had 5 months in the USA I thought it apt to share with you all some facts about this country that you may or may not know. Things I have read on our travels that I have found interesting.

• The USA's poulation is 300 million making it the most populous country after India and China.
• 31 million speak Spanish as a first language.
• 75% of the population are white, 12.5 % black, 12.5 % Hispanic/Latino and only 1% are Native American Indian.
• USA is the only country in the world to have 6 climate zones.
• USA is so large it has 4 time zones within the mainland USA. Alaska and Hawaii are an additional 2 more time zones.
• USA is the 3rd largest country in the world.
• A 2002 study of 18-24 year olds found 1/2 couldn't locate New York on a map, 2 1/3rds couldn't locate New Jersy (the most populated state) and 1/10th couldn't find the USA !
• USA has the most uninsured citizens, the highest rate of poverty and infant mortality and one of the least successful public education systems in the western world.
• USA has the best and most sophisticated medical care and facilities in the western world.
• Gas is $2.20 US on average per gallon (1 gallon = 3.8 litres). This equates to about 84c NZ per litre.
• It is estimated that 21,000 people die prematurely each year in the USA as a result of being uninsured.
• USA's most profitable business is the pharmaceutical industry.
• American's eat 50% of their meals in restaurants (does not include fast food or takeaway).