* Natural features: The shapes of some states are largely determined by natural features, such as rivers, mountains, and oceans. For example, the state of Texas is shaped in part by the Gulf of Mexico and the Rio Grande River.
* Historical events: The shapes of other states are the result of historical events, such as wars, treaties, and migrations. For example, the state of Virginia was originally much larger, but it was divided into two states (Virginia and West Virginia) during the Civil War.
* Political considerations: The shapes of still other states are the result of political considerations, such as the desire to create districts that are compact, contiguous, and electorally competitive. For example, the state of Pennsylvania is gerrymandered, which means that its districts are drawn in a way that favors one political party over another.
The shapes of states are not static. They can change over time as a result of natural events, historical events, and political considerations. For example, the state of Louisiana has lost land to the Gulf of Mexico due to erosion, and the state of California has gained land due to earthquakes. The shapes of states can also change as a result of changes in political boundaries, such as the creation of new states or the merger of existing states.
