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= Cascadia =

Cascadia, officially known as the Cascadian Republic, is a country primarily located in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It consists of three provinces, two territories, and numerous First Nations reserves. Cascadia is also in a free association with two Pacific Island sovereign states: the Republic of Nauru and the Republic of Kiribati. It is the world's 16th largest country by land area and the 21st largest by total area. It shares a land border with the United States to the south and has maritime borders with Japan, Russia, and other nations. With a population of over 14 million, it is the most populous country in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. The capital of Cascadia is Vancouver, and its most populous city and principal financial center is Seattle.

Early history
Further information: Native Americans in the United States, Prehistory of the United States, and Pre-Columbian era Cliff Palace, located in present-day Colorado, was built by the Ancestral Puebloans between AD 1190 and 1260.

It is generally accepted that the first inhabitants of North America migrated from Siberia by way of the Bering land bridge and arrived at least 12,000 years ago; however, some evidence suggests an even earlier date of arrival. The Clovis culture, which appeared around 11,000 BC, is believed to represent the first wave of human settlement of the Americas. This was likely the first of three major waves of migration into North America; later waves brought the ancestors of present-day Athabaskans, Aleuts, and Eskimos.

Over time, indigenous cultures in North America grew increasingly sophisticated, and some, such as the pre-Columbian Mississippian culture in the southeast, developed advanced agriculture, architecture, and complex societies. The city-state of Cahokia is the largest, most complex pre-Columbian archaeological site in the modern-day United States. In the Four Corners region, Ancestral Puebloan culture developed from centuries of agricultural experimentation. The Algonquian are one of the most populous and widespread North American native language groups. This grouping consists of the peoples who speak Algonquian languages. Historically, these peoples were prominent along the Atlantic Coast and into the interior along the Saint Lawrence River and around the Great Lakes. Before Europeans came into contact, most Algonquian settlements lived by hunting and fishing, although many supplemented their diet by cultivating corn, beans and squash (the "Three Sisters"). The Ojibwe cultivated wild rice. The Haudenosaunee confederation of the Iroquois, located in the southern Great Lakes region, was established at some point between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries.

Estimating the native population of North America ​during European contact is difficult. Douglas H. Ubelaker of the Smithsonian Institution estimated a population of 93,000 in the South Atlantic states and a population of 473,000 in the Gulf states, but most academics regard this figure as too low. Anthropologist Henry F. Dobyns believed the populations were much higher, suggesting around 1.1 million along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, 2.2 million people living between Florida and Massachusetts, 5.2 million in the Mississippi Valley and tributaries, and around 700,000 people in the Florida peninsula.

Modern History
The history of the Cascadia Republic dates back to the early 19th century, when the Oregon Territory was jointly occupied by the United States and Great Britain. In the years leading up to the American Civil War, tensions between the two nations grew, and there was talk of creating an independent state in the Pacific Northwest. However, the outbreak of war put those plans on hold.

In the decades that followed, the region continued to develop economically and culturally, with the timber and fishing industries playing a particularly important role. The discovery of gold in the Klondike in the late 19th century brought an influx of settlers to the region, further fueling its growth.

During the early 20th century, Cascadia experienced a period of political and social upheaval, with labor strikes, civil rights movements, and the rise of the environmental movement all playing a role. In the 1960s and 1970s, the region emerged as a center of countercultural and progressive activism, with a focus on issues such as environmental protection, gender and racial equality, and opposition to the Vietnam War.

In 2020, after years of political and economic turmoil in the United States, a group of activists and politicians in the Pacific Northwest formed the Cascadia Independence Movement. In a closely contested referendum, the people of the region voted to secede from the United States and form the independent Republic of Cascadia. Since then, Cascadia has continued to thrive, with a strong economy, vibrant culture, and a commitment to progressive values.

Etymology
The name "Cascadia" is derived from the Cascade Range, a mountain range that extends from northern California through Oregon and Washington into British Columbia, Canada. The name is believed to have been first used by botanist David Douglas, who named the region after the cascading waterfalls found in the mountains.

The term "Cascadia" was later adopted by environmental activists, who advocated for a bioregionalist movement in the Pacific Northwest. This movement sought to promote sustainable living and environmental protection in the region.

As the idea of Cascadia gained traction, it began to take on a political meaning. In the early 21st century, proponents of Cascadia began advocating for the creation of a new nation-state that would encompass the Pacific Northwest. The name "Cascadia Republic" was chosen to reflect this new political reality, and to emphasize the region's unique geography and cultural heritage.

Geography
The Cascadia Republic is a diverse and geographically rich country located in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It is bordered to the north by Canada's British Columbia province, to the east by the Rocky Mountains, and to the west by the Pacific Ocean. Its southern border is shared with the United States.

The country is characterized by its rugged mountain ranges, verdant forests, pristine lakes and rivers, and extensive coastline. The Cascade Range, after which the country is named, runs from north to south through the western portion of the country, and includes several prominent peaks such as Mount Rainier, Mount Hood, and Mount Shasta. The Rocky Mountains also run through the eastern portion of the country, and are home to numerous national parks and wilderness areas.

The western portion of Cascadia is heavily forested, with dense stands of Douglas fir, hemlock, and cedar dominating the landscape. The coastal region is home to numerous estuaries and bays, and supports a diverse array of marine life. The eastern portion of the country is characterized by vast grasslands and rolling hills, which provide important habitat for a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and pronghorn antelope.

Cascadia is also home to several large rivers, including the Columbia, the Snake, and the Fraser, which support important salmon runs and provide hydroelectric power to the region. The country's varied geography and climate also support a diverse agricultural sector, with crops ranging from apples and pears in the western valleys, to wheat and barley on the eastern plains.

Climate
The climate of Cascadia varies depending on the region, but it is generally mild and wet due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean. The coastal areas have a maritime climate, characterized by cool summers and mild winters with high amounts of rainfall. Inland areas have a more continental climate, with greater temperature variation and less precipitation. The mountainous areas of Cascadia have an alpine climate, with cold, snowy winters and cool summers. The region is also prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and wildfires.

Oregon
The climate of the Oregon province in Cascadia is influenced by both the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Range. The western part of the province has a mild, maritime climate, with cool, wet winters and mild, dry summers. The eastern part of the province is drier and has a more continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and hot, dry summers. The Cascade Range has a significant impact on climate, creating a rain shadow effect that results in less precipitation on the eastern slopes. The province is also prone to wildfires, particularly during the dry summer months.

Washington
The climate of the Washington province in Cascadia is also influenced by the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Range. The western part of the province has a marine west coast climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and mild, dry summers. The eastern part of the province has a semi-arid climate, with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. The Cascade Range again plays a role in the climate, creating a rain shadow effect that results in less precipitation on the eastern slopes. The province is also prone to landslides and flooding, particularly in the coastal regions, which can be exacerbated by heavy rainfall events.

British Columbia
British Columbia has a varied climate due to its diverse geography. The coastal region has a temperate climate with mild, rainy winters and cool, dry summers. Vancouver, located in the coastal region of British Columbia, has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate, with warm and dry summers and mild and rainy winters. Inland regions of British Columbia, including areas around Vancouver, have a subarctic climate with cold, snowy winters and warm summers. The Rocky Mountains in the eastern part of the province have an alpine climate with very cold winters and mild summers. Overall, British Columbia experiences mild temperatures and moderate precipitation throughout the year. The coastal region is known for its lush forests and abundant rainfall, while the interior has a drier climate with arid grasslands and desert regions.

Goverment and Politics
The Cascadia Republic is a federal parliamentary representative democratic republic with a multi-party system. The government operates under a constitution that was adopted in 2002 and outlines the division of powers between the federal government and the provinces. The federal government has the power to regulate issues such as defense, foreign policy, and national infrastructure, while the provinces have authority over matters such as education, healthcare, and local infrastructure.

The head of state is the President, who serves as a ceremonial figurehead, and the head of government is the Prime Minister, who is elected by the Parliament. The Parliament consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Members of the House of Representatives are elected by popular vote, while members of the Senate are appointed by the President upon recommendation by the Prime Minister.

Political parties play a major role in the politics of Cascadia. Some of the major political parties include the Social Democratic Party, the Liberal Party, the Conservative Party, and the Green Party. The Prime Minister is typically the leader of the political party that holds the most seats in the House of Representatives.

Cascadia is known for its strong commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. The government has implemented policies to promote clean energy and reduce carbon emissions. The country also has a long history of social progressivism, with policies aimed at promoting social justice, equal rights, and diversity.

Military
As a peaceful and neutral country, Cascadia maintains a small defense force primarily focused on disaster relief and emergency response. The Cascadian Defense Force (CDF) is made up of the Cascadian Army, Cascadian Navy, and Cascadian Air Force.

The Cascadian Army consists of approximately 10,000 personnel and is responsible for disaster relief efforts, emergency response, and border security. The Cascadian Navy has a small fleet of vessels and is primarily responsible for search and rescue missions, coastal patrol, and maritime security. The Cascadian Air Force is responsible for air defense and provides airlift capabilities for disaster response efforts.

Cascadia does not have any active military alliances with other nations, and it maintains a strict policy of neutrality and non-intervention in the affairs of other nations. However, the country does participate in international peacekeeping and disaster relief efforts, often in cooperation with other nations and international organizations.

Economy
Cascadia has a diverse and thriving economy. The region is rich in natural resources, including timber, fisheries, and minerals, which have historically played a significant role in its economy. In recent years, the region has also become a center for technology and innovation, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Major industries include software development, biotechnology, aerospace, and renewable energy.

Cascadia also benefits from a well-developed infrastructure, including a network of highways, railways, and ports that connect it to markets across North America and the world. The region's largest cities, Seattle and Vancouver, are both major hubs for international trade, with busy ports and airports that handle goods and passengers from around the globe.

Overall, Cascadia's economy is characterized by a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility. The region's businesses and leaders are committed to creating a prosperous and equitable society that benefits all its citizens while preserving the natural beauty and resources of the area.

Poverty and Income
According to the latest available data from the Cascadia Republic's census bureau, the median household income in 2022 was $72,500, with a poverty rate of 9.5%. However, there are significant variations in income and poverty rates by region and demographic groups.

In general, urban areas tend to have higher median incomes than rural areas, and certain professions such as technology and finance tend to pay higher wages than others. The poverty rate is generally lower among non-Hispanic Whites and Asians, while it is higher among African Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanic/Latinx populations.

The Cascadian government has implemented various policies and programs to address poverty, including minimum wage laws, welfare programs, and job training initiatives. However, poverty and income inequality remain ongoing issues in some areas and among certain groups.

Technology and Science
Cascadia has a strong focus on science, technology, and innovation. It has world-class research institutions and universities, and the government invests heavily in research and development. The country has a thriving technology industry, with companies specializing in software, hardware, and biotechnology. The government offers tax incentives and other benefits to businesses that invest in research and development.

Cascadia is known for its commitment to sustainable development and green technology. The country is a leader in renewable energy, with a significant portion of its electricity coming from hydroelectric dams, wind turbines, and solar panels. Cascadia's government encourages the development of new technologies that can help reduce the country's carbon footprint and combat climate change.

The country is home to several world-class research institutions, including the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and the University of Washington. These institutions attract top talent from around the world and have produced groundbreaking research in fields such as medicine, engineering, and computer science.

Cascadia also has a thriving startup culture, with many entrepreneurs starting companies in the technology and biotechnology sectors. The government offers support for these startups, including funding and mentorship programs, and has created a favorable regulatory environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. Overall, Cascadia is a hub of scientific and technological innovation, and it is poised to continue leading the way in these fields in the coming years.

Great innovators

 * 1) David Suzuki: A geneticist and environmental activist, Suzuki is known for his work on preserving biodiversity and protecting the environment. He has also hosted numerous television shows on science and environmental topics.
 * 2) Lynne Quarmby: A molecular biologist and professor at Simon Fraser University, Quarmby has conducted research on the genetic basis of diseases such as polycystic kidney disease.
 * 3) Edward Rubin: A physicist and director of the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Rubin has made significant contributions to the study of materials science and energy.
 * 4) Elsie MacGill: An aeronautical engineer, MacGill was the first woman in Canada to earn an electrical engineering degree and went on to design and oversee the production of aircraft during World War II.
 * 5) George Dyson: A historian of technology and science, Dyson has written extensively on the history of computing and its implications for society.

Population
The Cascadian Census reported 331,449,281 residents as of April 1, 2020; The Cascadia Republic has a population of approximately 25 million people, based on estimates from the most recent

census conducted in 2020. The population is diverse, with individuals from a variety of ethnic and racial backgrounds. White Americans, who have ancestry from Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa, form the largest ethnic group, comprising 61.6% of the population. Hispanic and Latino Americans make up 18.7% of the population, while African Americans constitute 12.4%. Asian Americans are the fourth-largest group, composing 6% of the population, and Native Americans account for 1.1% of the population.

The population of the Cascadia Republic is also comprised of immigrants and their U.S.-born children, with approximately 25% of the population falling into this category. Naturalized citizens make up 45% of the foreign-born population, while lawful permanent residents account for 27%. Temporary lawful residents make up 6% of the foreign-born population, and unauthorized immigrants comprise 23%.

In terms of age, the median age of the Cascadia Republic population is approximately 39 years old. In 2020, the total fertility rate was 1.67 children per woman, which is slightly below replacement level. The country also has a relatively low rate of children living in single-parent households compared to other countries, at 10%.

The Cascadia Republic has a diverse population with a mix of ethnicities, races, and immigrant statuses. The country's population is relatively young, with a median age of 39, and has a fertility rate that is slightly below replacement