What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of the word North America? Home to amazing wildlife? The cradle of technology and the most Olympic medals? Or is it simply a continent with 579 million population? Get to know the lesser-known and interesting facts about North America.
North America, a place of some of the world’s oldest and most prominent universities, is well-established as a popular study-abroad option for foreign students from all over the world. Whether you intend to study in North America or you’re just interested in learning new things, these surprising facts about the North American continent will surely put a smile on your face. Check out the infographic below, and tell your friends about your new-found North American facts.
1. Death Valley Is The Lowest Land Point.
North America’s most gloomy, dry and lowest national park is Death Valley. The lowest point in the region is Badwater Basin, which is situated 86 meters (282 feet) above sea level. The valley is known for the world’s hottest temperature ever measured—a scorching 134 degrees in July 1936. Iconic species found in Death Valley, such as the saltbush lizard, crooked bush, and Death Valley tortoise, contribute to its remarkable diversity. The wide range of endangered flora and fauna also inhabit Death Valley.
2. Gray Whales Are The Most Epic Wildlife Of North America.
The sole living member of the baleen whale family is the gray whale which inhabits North America. Every year, they traverse the continent, spending the winter in the balmy lagoons of Mexico and the summer in the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean. This migratory tracks the North American coast and intersects with areas of strong coastal shipping and commercial fishing. Gray whales cover over 10,000 km (6,000 miles) each way in migration. These are amazing facts about North America’s only wildlife with the longest migration among all mammals.
3. North America Is A Corn-Rich Continent.
Corn is a prominent crop in the area, and it is utilised for a variety of purposes. In reality, North America is the world’s largest corn-producing region. Aside from eating, corn is used to make a variety of products, including biofuel and textiles. Corn is important in North American cuisine in addition to its agricultural importance. It is a common ingredient in a variety of traditional foods, including cornbread, tortillas, and several types of popcorn.
4. North America Is A Continent Of Biodiversity.
North America is the third largest continent in the world, behind Asia and Africa. With a population of approximately 579 million people, it is also the fourth most populous continent, after only Asia, Africa, and Europe. North America, which spans over 24 million square kilometres, is home to a vast mix of civilisations, climates, and landscapes. The continent is a melting pot of natural beauty and human creativity, stretching from the frigid tundra of the Arctic to the tropical jungles of Central America.
5. The World’s Largest Island is Greenland.
Greenland is a part of Denmark; however, it has broad autonomy, which was expanded in 2009. Geographically, the island is located on the eastern margin of the North American tectonic plate, which means it is part of the North American continent. However, its biggest cultural influences originate from Europe, the Far East of Greenland. While seasonal, transitory Arctic inhabitants most likely inhabited the island, it was European explorers who transformed Greenland into what it is today.
6. North America Is Named After An Italian Explorer.
It was an Italian explorer named Amerigo Vespucci who labelled North America, not the Spanish. Amerigo was honoured since he was the first to recognize North America as a separate continent. Amerigo Vespucci’s wise observations produced essential insights about the unique nature of the continents. His detailed maps and writings were essential in proving the former belief that Christopher Columbus had reached Asia, eventually leading to the discovery of the New World as distinct from the recognized continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
7. The Famous Cocktail, Piña Colada Originated In Puerto Rico.
Islanders claim that the Piña Colada dates back to the 1800s and that the fruity drink was invented by Puerto Rican pirate Roberto Cofresí, who served it to his team to lift their spirits. With only rum, coconut, and pineapple nectar found onboard, Cofresí created the first Piña Colada. Its nice tropical flavour has made it an iconic drink enjoyed around the world. When vsiting to Puerto Rico, you can now enjoy this refreshing sweetness in its original location.
8. Canada Is The Largest Country With The Smallest Population.
Canada is the continent’s largest country. The stunning country’s 3.8 million square miles make it the world’s second-largest behind Russia. Interestingly, Canada is also the region’s least populous country, at least in terms of density, with 11 persons per square mile. Canada is also known for its high standard of life, solid healthcare system, and good educational options. Its progressive policies and friendly attitude towards immigrants have helped it establish a global leadership position in North America.
9. You Need To Pay To Experience This Sunrise In Hawaii.
Cars entering Haleakala National Park in Maui between 3 and 7 a.m. must pay a fee for entry. The price was introduced to minimise overcrowding and ensure that every visitor gets the full experience of the view. This special approach contributes to the tranquil and serene beauty of Haleakala’s sunrise. The fee also goes to the park’s conservation, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this stunning natural beauty.
10. Printing In North America Emerged From Mexico.
Through the mass manufacturing of printed works, the printing press was invented in Europe and opened up the world of information and education to millions of people. In 1539, Mexico City saw the establishment of the first printing press in North America. This breakthrough led to the rise of printing presses across North America, changing the intellectual environment and contributing to the growth of literary traditions in the continent.
More Interesting Facts About North America
North America is a diverse continent with a colorful culture. Discover interesting facts about the geography, history, and culture of North America.
- North America is the world’s third largest continent, ranked below Asia first and Africa.
- The name “America” is used to refer to South America alone. However, when the landmass of present North America was added to maps, most mapmakers opted to retain the original name.
- US, Canada, and Mexico are the three most dominant countries in North America.
- There are around 150 indigenous languages that are still widely spoken in North America.
- North America connects to South America by land only through the Isthmus of Panama or the Isthmus of Darian.
- The first “skyscrapers” (of ten stories and more) were built in Chicago/USA as early as during the 1880s.
- Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River also act as boundaries between the USA and Canada.
- The Wood Buffalo National Park is the world’s largest national park located in the Alberta province of Canada.
- Over four hundred tornadoes rip through the prairies in North America on a yearly basis.
- The North American culture and lifestyle are mostly influenced by Northern Mexico.
- Alberta, the US, Canada, and Northern Mexico have a cowboy culture.
- North American athletes have won maximum Olympic medals.
