Virginias

The Virginias is a regional term that can refer to the two U.S. states of Virginia and West Virginia, particularly when discussing their shared origins, geography, and cultural ties. It is also used to describe the broader cultural and historical region that spans parts of the Mid-Atlantic and Appalachian areas.

Historically, the area now known as Virginia traces its origins to the Virginia Colony established in the 17th century. During the American Civil War, political divisions over secession led to eight western counties breaking away to form West Virginia, which was admitted to the Union in 1863. The eastern portion remained the Commonwealth of Virginia. The term The Virginias reflects both the common origins and the long-standing connections between the two states.

Geographically, the Virginias cover a range of landscapes from coastal plains and the Piedmont region to the Appalachian Mountains. The Potomac and James rivers and the Shenandoah Valley are notable features. Virginia contains areas of high population density in the northern part near Washington, D.C., while West Virginia is more mountainous and less densely populated, with a legacy tied to coal mining and natural resources.

Economies and culture diverge in emphasis but share Appalachian influences and historical frontier experiences. Virginia has a diversified economy including technology, government, and agriculture, while West Virginia has historically depended on coal, manufacturing, and services, with ongoing diversification. As of the 2020 census, Virginia had about 8.6 million residents and West Virginia about 1.8 million, totaling roughly 10.4 million.