From southern New York to northern Mississippi, Appalachia is the eastern United States. This strip of land covers parts of 12 states: Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Tennessee. It also includes the entirety of West Virginia. The earliest recorded period of the Appilchia was 16,000 years ago when Native American hunter-gatherers lived on the land. Evidence was found in sites like Meadowcraft Rockshelter in Pennsylvania—which scientists believe predates the Clovis culture—and other places, such as Icehouse Bottom, Tennessee.
In the 1700s, European immigrants began settling in Appalachia. Many of the settlers were Scottish and bought many cultural things such as farming practices, music, and general customs. \These settlers started establishing small farms and communities throughout the region and adapted to the mountainous terrain of the land.
With the discovery of rich natural resources, such as coal, came significant economic changes for the area in the 19th century. The coal industry became a major employer, attracting workers and leading to labor disputes and environmental challenges in the area. The region’s economy.
Despite the economic challenges, Appalachia has a vibrant cultural heritage. The region is known for its music, especially bluegrass, and folk, and is also known for crafts as well like quilting and woodworking. These traditions reflect the diverse backgrounds of the people who live in the region. 
