How Many States in the USA
50 states make up the United States - Hawaii was the last to join in 1959
⚡Quick Answer
The United States has 50 states. Hawaii (1959) was the last state admitted. The US also has 5 major territories including Puerto Rico. Alaska is the largest state, Rhode Island is the smallest. Delaware was the first state (1787).
Step-by-Step Guide
Quick Answer
The United States has 50 states. The last state to join was Hawaii in 1959. The US also has 5 major territories (Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands) and several minor territories.
The Newest States
Alaska became the 49th state on January 3, 1959 | Hawaii became the 50th state on August 21, 1959 | Before them, Arizona (1912) was the most recent.
States vs. Territories
States have full voting representation in Congress and electoral votes. Territories have limited or no voting power in Congress. Major territories include Puerto Rico (3.2M people), Guam, US Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Northern Mariana Islands.
Interesting State Facts
Largest by area: Alaska (665,384 sq mi) | Smallest: Rhode Island (1,214 sq mi) | Most populous: California (39M) | Least populous: Wyoming (580K) | First state: Delaware (ratified Constitution Dec 7, 1787)
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there ever be a 51st state?
Possibly. Puerto Rico and Washington D.C. are the most discussed candidates. Puerto Rico has voted multiple times on statehood with varying results. D.C. statehood would require constitutional changes. Other possibilities include combining existing states or admitting territories like Guam. Any new state requires approval from Congress and the President.
What's the difference between a state and a territory?
States have full representation in Congress (2 senators, representatives based on population), electoral votes for president, and full sovereignty within the federal system. Territories have limited or no voting representation, no electoral votes, and less autonomy. Puerto Rico has a non-voting delegate in Congress.
Is Washington D.C. a state?
No. Washington D.C. (District of Columbia) is a federal district, not a state. It was created in 1790 to serve as the nation's capital. Residents can vote for president (since 1961) but have no voting representation in Congress. The 'D.C. statehood' movement seeks to change this.
What were the original 13 states?
The original 13 colonies that became states: Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island. They ratified the Constitution between 1787-1790.
Can a state leave the United States?
No. The Supreme Court ruled in Texas v. White (1869) that states cannot unilaterally secede from the Union. The Civil War (1861-1865) was fought partly over this issue. Once admitted, states are permanently part of the United States.