The United States is a constitutional federal republic made up of 50 states and various insular territories. It was founded by English colonists seeking religious freedom and has long been a destination for immigrants, with people from all over the world comprising its population. While earlier immigrants were encouraged to assimilate, contemporary scholars view American culture as more of a "salad bowl" or "tossed salad" where immigrants retain aspects of their original cultures while integrating into society. Some argue this multiculturalism threatens an essential American identity centered around European roots.
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