Why is West Virginia considered southern?

There are a few reasons why West Virginia is often considered to be a Southern state.

Cultural ties: West Virginia has strong historical and cultural ties to the Southern United States. Many of the state's early settlers came from Virginia, North Carolina, and other southern states, and many of the state's traditions, customs, and accents reflect this heritage. For example, the state has a strong tradition of blue grass music, and country music artists such as Bill Withers, Brad Paisley, and Rascal Flatts hail from the Mountain State.

State identity and geography: West Virginia's location also plays a role in its association with the South: it is geographically located in the southern part of the Appalachian Mountains, and the state's mountainous terrain and climate are similar to those of many southern states.

Political leanings: Historically, West Virginia has tended to vote in favor of Democratic candidates for President and other major offices, in line with the voting patterns of the Southern states.

While there are regional variations within West Virginia, with the northern and eastern panhandle areas exhibiting more similarities to states like Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Ohio, the state's overall cultural, geographic, and historical connections to the South contribute to its perception as a Southern state. However, it is important to note that these perceptions can vary and individuals may have different perspectives on West Virginia's regional affiliations.