| Name | Miami |
| Founding | Spanish colonial outpost, 16th century |
| Location | Southeastern coast of Florida, United Provinces |
| Highlights | Strategic location • Vibrant arts scene • Diverse neighborhoods |
| Original Name | Biscayne |
| Key Industries | Trade • Finance • Tourism |
| Historical Control | Spain, then United Provinces in early 1900s |
| Cultural Influences | Latin American, particularly Cuban American |
Miami, formerly known as Biscayne, is a major city located in the United Provinces of America state of Florida. Founded as a Spanish colonial settlement in the 16th century, Miami has grown into a global center of trade, finance, and tourism, with a distinct Latin American cultural character.
The city of Miami traces its origins to the 1565 founding of the Spanish settlement of Biscayne near the mouth of the Miami River. Over the next three centuries, Biscayne served as an important outpost and port for the Spanish Empire's colonial activities in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico.
In the late 19th century, as the United Provinces expanded its own colonial reach, tensions arose between the two powers. This culminated in the brief Spanish–American War of 1898, after which Spain ceded control of Florida, including Biscayne, to the Provinces. The city was renamed Miami in 1902 as it transitioned into an American territory.
Miami's strategic location and deep natural harbor, combined with its existing infrastructure and trade connections, made it an attractive acquisition for the Provinces. Over the following decades, it grew rapidly as a key port of entry and hub for the Provinces' burgeoning commercial and financial activities in the Caribbean basin and Latin America.
Miami is situated on the southeastern tip of the Florida peninsula, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Florida Everglades to the west. The city's downtown is built on a series of natural and man-made islands at the mouth of the Miami River, with additional neighborhoods sprawling outward.
The architecture of Miami reflects its Spanish heritage, with buildings featuring ornate Baroque and Mediterranean Revival styles. The city's urban planning has been influenced by both European and American models, resulting in a relatively dense, walkable core surrounded by more sprawling suburban development.
Miami's neighborhoods are diverse, with sizable communities of Cuban American, Haitian American, and Latin American residents, in addition to a growing population of non-Hispanic whites and other ethnic groups. This multicultural makeup is evident in the city's vibrant arts scene, cuisine, and cultural institutions.
Miami's economy is centered around its role as a major international trade, finance, and tourism hub. The city's port and maritime infrastructure handle significant volumes of cargo and cruise ship traffic, connecting the United Provinces to markets throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.
Miami is also a key financial center, home to the regional headquarters of many multinational corporations, banks, and investment firms. The city has developed expertise in areas like international banking, insurance, and real estate. Tourism is another pillar of the economy, with visitors drawn to Miami's beaches, art deco architecture, and lively cultural offerings.
Other important industries in Miami include aviation, biotechnology, and film/television production. The city has also positioned itself as a hub for startup and tech companies, attracting talent from across the Americas.
Miami's culture is heavily influenced by its Latin American and Caribbean ties, particularly its large Cuban American population. Spanish is widely spoken alongside English, and the city's architecture, cuisine, music, and arts reflect this diverse heritage.
The annual Carnaval Miami celebration is one of the largest and most vibrant in the world, drawing participants from across the Americas. Miami is also home to numerous art galleries, museums, and performing arts venues that showcase Latin American, Caribbean, and Spanish influences.
Professional sports teams like the Miami Heatseekers, Miami Marlins, and Miami Dolphins also contribute to the city's cultural identity and vibrancy. Overall, Miami is celebrated for its unique blend of North American and Latin American cultures, earning it the nickname the "Gateway to the Americas."
As a major port city, Miami's transportation infrastructure is centered around its maritime facilities. The Port of Miami is one of the busiest cruise ship ports in the world, in addition to handling substantial cargo traffic. The city is also home to several cargo airports, including Miami International Airport, that facilitate trade with the Caribbean and Latin America.
Miami's urban transportation network includes an extensive system of expressways, bridges, and causeways connecting the city's various islands and neighborhoods. Light rail and bus services provide public transit options, supplemented by a growing network of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.
Intercity rail connections, including the Southeast Corridor high-speed train, link Miami to other major cities in the United Provinces, while maritime ferry services connect it to destinations throughout the Caribbean.
