The United States was originally settled by Native Americans and later by Europeans like Christopher Columbus and the Pilgrims. It declared independence from Britain in 1776 and has since grown to include 50 states across North America. The country has a federal presidential republic government led by President Barack Obama and is home to over 313 million people. It has a large, diverse economy centered around New York City's Wall Street and has a culture defined by ideals like the American Dream alongside global influences in media, art, and cuisine.