Final answer:
The Sun Belt is an area comprising 15 states in the United States, known for its warm climate and as a hub for economic growth and demographic change, particularly with the significant rise of service-sector jobs following the spread of air-conditioning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term “Sun Belt” refers to a region of the United States comprising 15 states characterized by a warm climate, economic growth, and a rising population. The concept encapsulates an area that has seen significant development and growth in the service sector, particularly after the widespread adoption of air-conditioning in the post-World War II era. This region has become a year-round haven for businesses and individuals alike, substantially affecting demographic and economic trends within the country.
Cities such as Atlanta, Memphis, Dallas, and Phoenix stand as core urban hubs within the Sun Belt, drawing in populations with their favorable conditions for both lifestyles and business operations. The increase in information technology industries has perpetuated a permanent population shift away from the colder Northern states. This shift is further evidenced by the increasing Hispanic population in southern states, which contributes to the diverse socio-economic landscape of the Sun Belt.
Whether certain states like Kentucky should be included in the Sun Belt is subject to individual perception, as regional boundaries within vernacular terms like the Sun Belt are often fluid and reflect broad public consensus rather than strict geographical demarcations. Nonetheless, the Sun Belt is recognized for its significance in terms of economic development, demographic changes, and its role as a cultural and climatic zone distinct from other regions such as the Midwest, Rust Belt, or Bible Belt.