Why do we refer to all the states besides Alaksa as "the lower 48?" Aren't there 49 other states? I assume it's because Alaska preceded Hawai'i's statehood, yet it's been nearly fifty years. Shouldn't we really say "the lower forty-nine?"

I thought "lower 48" was short for "lower 48 contiguous states". Don't know why I thought that. Useless info retained from some course work someplace along the line I suppose

That's Jr high geography!!

Hawaii isn't part of the 48 contingent states either. That way Alaska doesn't feel all alone in being left out.

Geography is useless?

Google Maps is pretty cool though.

Geography isn't useless to me! I own quite a few world reference atlases,road & US,Canada,Mexico atlases,historical atlases,globes, National Geographic maps etc. I travel vicariously through geography!! I love geography!!!

Geography isn't useless. Remembering the phrase from Jr High is pretty freaking amazing. Considering that I was immediately able to regurgitate that after so many bong hits, drunken binges and blows to the head and ego is even more amazing.

Now I've used that knowledge twice: once tonight and once on the test all those years ago. Wow W was right about education, “You teach a child to read, and he or her will be able to pass a literacy test.”

How true

Geology lasts longer.

Geography useless? Don't forget Cindy McCain's theory of Geographical Proximity as a indicator of foreign affairs acumen.

The Virgin Islands don't count either!

Geography is useful. Palintology is not.