Miami

Miami is a city located in southeastern Florida, United States, and the county seat of Miami-Dade County. It is the principal city of the Miami metropolitan area, a major economic and cultural hub in South Florida. The city lies on the Atlantic coast beside Biscayne Bay, facing the Caribbean and Latin American regions. The population of the city is in the hundreds of thousands, while the metropolitan area contains several million residents.

History: Founded in 1896 with the arrival of railroad magnates and entrepreneur Julia Tuttle, Miami grew rapidly as a tourist resort and trade center. The Florida land boom of the 1920s, the postwar period, and mass immigration, especially from Cuba and other Caribbean and Latin American countries after 1959, shaped its demographics. Today, Miami is known for its diverse population and a strong international influence.

Geography and climate: The city covers portions of the barrier island and mainland across Biscayne Bay. It has a tropical monsoon climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. It is vulnerable to tropical storms and sea level rise.

Economy and culture: The economy emphasizes tourism, trade, finance, media, and international business. Major institutions include PortMiami and Miami International Airport, both key transportation hubs. Notable districts include Downtown/Brickell, Wynwood, and South Beach. The city hosts a large Cuban American community and other immigrant groups, contributing to a vibrant arts and culinary scene. Professional sports teams include the Miami Dolphins (NFL), Miami Heat (NBA), and Miami Marlins (MLB).

Education and infrastructure: Higher education institutions include the University of Miami, Florida International University, and Miami Dade College. Public transit includes Metrorail and Metrobus, with ongoing projects to expand capacity.