Page "Southern United States" Paragraph 2

Historically, the South relied heavily on agriculture, but has become more industrialized and urban since the second half of the 20th century, attracting national and international migrants.

The American South is now among the fastest-growing areas in the United States.

While there has been rapid economic growth, every Southern state with the exceptions of Maryland, Virginia, and Florida has a higher poverty rate than the American average.

Poverty is especially prevalent in rural areas.

Sociological research indicates that Southern collective identity stems from political, demographic, and cultural distinctiveness.

The region contains the Bible Belt, an area of high Christian adherence.

Studies have shown that Southerners are more conservative than non-Southerners in several areas, including religion, morality, international relations and race relations.

This is evident during presidential elections and in religious attendance figures.