Ep 9. Vice vs. Virtue

In the ninth episode of season two of How The States Got Their Shapes, titled Vice vs. Virtue, the show takes a closer look at the cultural and moral differences between neighboring states in America. Host Brian Unger introduces the concept of "vice states" versus "virtue states," noting the stark differences in laws and social norms between certain areas.

Unger begins by discussing the cultural divide between Utah and Nevada, two neighboring states with vastly different attitudes towards gambling and alcohol. Nevada, known as the "Entertainment Capital of the World," is home to Las Vegas and a thriving gambling industry, while Utah is known for its strict Mormon influence and prohibition on alcohol. Unger delves into the history of these opposing viewpoints and the impact they have had on each state's cultural identity.

The episode then shifts to the East Coast, where Unger explores the border between Maryland and Virginia. Despite being separated by just a river, the two states have vastly different approaches to gambling, with Maryland allowing it while Virginia does not. Unger also delves into the history of the two states' attitudes towards alcohol and how these have shaped their cultures.

Next, the show tackles the topic of marijuana legalization, examining the divide between Colorado and Nebraska. While Colorado has legalized marijuana for recreational use, Nebraska has not, leading to tensions along their shared border. Unger discusses the history of marijuana laws in America and the ways in which changing attitudes are impacting state borders.

Moving back to the East Coast, the show explores the infamous Mason-Dixon line, a historically significant boundary between free and slave states. Unger discusses the ways in which this boundary has impacted the cultural identity of states on either side, particularly in relation to race relations.

Finally, the show concludes with a discussion of the cultural divide between California and Texas. With California known for its liberal attitudes towards social issues, and Texas known for its conservative values, the two states could not be more different. Unger examines the impact of these contrasting values on the states' governance and how they are perceived by the rest of the country.

Throughout the episode, the show employs a mix of interviews with experts and historians, as well as animations and historical footage, to paint a picture of the cultural and moral divide between neighboring states in America. Through exploring the ways in which these attitudes have shaped state borders, Vice vs. Virtue offers insight into the unique cultural identities that define America's diverse landscape.