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Where is the United States?

The United States of America’s geographic boundaries have shifted repeatedly over the past 250 years. Early settlers colonized indigenous lands and then pushed west. Presidents added territories through purchases, wars, and forced migrations. Our borders often feel set, but our history proves they are moveable.

 

Where might they lie in another fifty years?

Painted portrait of Hernan Cortez

Portrait of Hernan Cortez, 1849 

President James K. Polk Home and Museum

Blue Hole Spring at Red Clay State Park

Red Clay Landscape, 2026

Red Clay State Historic Park

Collage with Puerto Rico map, stars, and sewing icons.

Map Showing 51 States, 2051

Imagined by Rachel Helvering and the Shared Futures Lab

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