The Pacific Northwest, which consists of Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, is divided into two distinct regions by the Cascade Mountain Range. The western region is characterized by a mild, wet climate, while the eastern region is drier and more arid. This difference in climate has resulted in a significant population disparity, with about 72% of the region's population living on the western side.
Several factors contribute to this uneven population distribution. The western side's abundant rainfall and fertile soils make it ideal for agriculture, while the dense forests have historically supported a thriving timber industry. Additionally, the presence of major rivers like the Columbia and Willamette facilitated trade and transportation, leading to the development of large urban centers like Seattle, Portland, and Tacoma.
In contrast, the eastern side's drier climate and less fertile soils have made it less suitable for large-scale agriculture and urban development. The economy there has traditionally focused on mining, logging, and agriculture, which require lower population densities.
However, the eastern side is experiencing rapid growth in cities like Boise, Spokane, and Bend, suggesting that this population imbalance may become less pronounced in the future.
The video also delves into the region's history, including the Missoula Floods, which shaped much of the landscape, and the arrival of Europeans and the subsequent disputes over territory between the British Empire and the United States. The Oregon Treaty of 1846 finally established the border along the 49th parallel, paving the way for the formation of the states of Oregon, Washington, and Idaho.
