Are Alaska and Hawaii Two Non-Contiguous American States?

The terms 'Alaska' and 'Hawaii' often come up in discussions about the geographical and political structure of the United States. However, it can be confusing to understand whether these are indeed non-contiguous states or part of the contiguous United States.

Alaska: Part of the North American Continent

Alaska, despite common simplified maps portraying it as part of the contiguous 48 states, is a non-contiguous state. It is geographically part of the North American continent and borders the country of Canada. Interestingly, it is possible to drive from the lower 48 states to Alaska via Canada, albeit with the requirement to adhere to Canadian border laws.

Hawaii: A Controversial Fit

Hawaii’s status as a non-contiguous state is more ambiguous. While it is a part of North America, its island status sets it apart from other U.S. states. The designation “Contiguous United States” or “CONUS” typically excludes Alaska and Hawaii, along with locations like Point Roberts, Washington, which is a small peninsula separated from the rest of the state by Canada.

Geographical Context

In technical contexts, descriptors like “Contiguous US” or “CONUS” are used to exclude Alaska and Hawaii, as well as some locations like Point Roberts. This term is crucial for understanding the boundaries of the territory governed as a single unit.

Lower 48: The Contiguous States

The term “Lower 48” refers specifically to the contiguous 48 states plus the District of Columbia (D.C.). This does include Alaska in a technical sense, as Alaska is part of the North American continent. However, the contiguous United States (CONUS) does not include Alaska or Hawaii.

Historical Context

Alaska joined the United States in 1959, as did Hawaii. Prior to these acquisitions, the contiguous United States consisted of only 48 states. The addition of Alaska and Hawaii expanded the total to 50 states, but geographically, the original 48 states formed the contiguous territory.

United States Proper

The term “United States proper” can refer to the contiguous 48 states plus D.C., or it can include Alaska and Hawaii, along with Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This definition can vary based on the context of discussion.

Conclusion

In summary, while Alaska is part of the North American continent and is considered contiguous in a technical sense, it is part of the non-contiguous United States. Hawaii, on the other hand, is both non-contiguous and located in the Pacific Ocean. Understanding the differences between these terms helps in grasping the geographical and political landscape of the United States.