Alaska and Hawaii were the last two states to join the United States, admitted in 1859. Although they are very different in many aspects—especially size and climate—the two states do share several common traits. They are the only states that do not border at least one other U.S. state. Both have abundant natural beauty, and are popular tourist destinations. Alaska and Hawaii also have unique histories that differ in many ways from the forty-eight contiguous U.S. states. This book in the LET'S EXPLORE THE STATES series provides information about both of these interesting states, from their geography, history, and government to their economy, population demographics, and major cities.