Hello, Readers ~

To those who are wondering what this chapter is about, it's basically an extra chapter I've wrote to help develop characters, explain more about this series, or give my opinion regarding popular subjects that relate to Hetalia and States of America OCs. They'll appear every five State chapters, so there should be ten side chapters by the end of this volume. If these chapters disinterest you, feel free to ignore and skip them, and I won't hold it against you. To those who wish to learn more about the States of America and other related subjects, thank you for reading such side chapters.

By the way, this side chapter talks about the States' relation to not only each other and America, but also towards other nations as well. Be advised this is based on my opinion regarding the subject. Disagreements are fine so long as it's in a respectable manner. You've been warned.

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Relationships. A complicated web of connections that link one person to another. These connections can vary among individuals. For some, it's held by birth and familial bonds. For some, it's held by attitudes and amiability. To further complicate the web, all connections vary in strength, some being more stable than others. And then there are links that range from being far and distant to close and connected. Regardless, relationships are a unique topic to not only everyday life, but also all sorts of media, including Hetalia.

In both history and Hetalia itself, the countries are shown to interact with one another. Some are deeply close and friendly with one another while there are others who express antagonistic feelings toward certain nations. For example, most people know about America and Russia's relationship to be icy, tracing its roots back to World War II followed by the Cold War and current events. Such dynamics are not only iconic, but also express just how interconnected the world is.

For this fanfiction, I would like to explain the 50 States' relationship to not only America, but the countries and themselves included. This is a complex side chapter, and it may not necessarily explain everyone's relationship with one another. However, it does give a summary of relationships among my 50 States OCs, hopefully explaining future chapters involving the States of America interacting with certain characters.

To begin, let's start off with the number one country in the world.

America or Alfred F. Jones is the assumed leader over the 50 States (plus Washington D.C. and a few territories). Being a large, powerful country, he's often regarded in many aspects according to the States of America. To some, he's seen as a big brother figure. To others, he's seen as an endeared friend. In either case, each State has their own way of expressing their bond with the nation.

Below are some examples:

Virginia, who is one of the oldest states among the fifty, sees America as a younger brother of sorts. Having raised him since the colonial days, she played a big role in the nation's development, influencing some of his biggest decisions around that time. The two do have their disagreements, Virginia assuming America's naivete to be a disadvantage while America sees her as a bit controlling at times. Despite her role becoming minimized in the modern era, the two still get along which can make England a little jealous at times.

Texas, who is relatively close to America's age, often sees America as an ally and a friend. In her early years during her revolution, being considerably younger at the time, she was known to be a hot-head, known to bite America's head off whenever he annoyed her. Even today, she continues to criticize the nation, but deep down she does care for him as seen with her loud patriotism. Even though America has to deal with her stubborn behavior, he smiles knowing the true Texas to be a kind, loyal friend.

Hawaii, the youngest among the 50 States, sees America as an older brother figure. Their beginnings weren't exactly rosy since the overthrow of her kingdom (See Hawaii's chapter for context), however, their relationship became better in time. In the modern era, Hawaii enjoys America's company whenever he visits her home. Ever since he took Hawaii under his wing, America has been doing his best to make up for his past actions, but for the most part he really cares for Hawaii's well-being.

Each State of America has their own view and way of expressing their adoration to America. Regardless of his flaws, the 50 States do care for him, and love him very much as stated by Himaruya Hidekaz regarding his opinion on the States of America.

Today, the 50 States are a part of the U.S.A. But in the past, some of the States of America were a part of other nations before joining the Union. Most of these States were created upon becoming colonized by their country colonizer. Without these countries, some of the States wouldn't have existed. Thus in a historical context, the first ones to encounter some of these States were colonists from the Old World.

While some of these States were thankful to be brought up by their colonizer, their beginnings weren't exactly the best. As such, their relationship with their respective colonizers varies depending on how the nation treated their colonies which were rather poor in most circumstances. This affected the States' views on a nation which can transfer over to their current view on the nation today.

Below are summaries of the colonizers to colonize the States of America:

Great Britain/England (depending what version of the anime a person watches) or Arthur Kirkland is known to be the King of Colonization for his role in not only colonizing America, but also various places across the world. Regarding his role in America, he oversaw the final development of the Original Thirteen before their strive toward independence. Some members of the Original Thirteen like Delaware are rather neutral with him while those like Massachusetts still have bad blood with Bushy Brows in current times.

England's relationship with the Original Thirteen was a mixed bag of emotions. His relationship with them wasn't as close as his to America due to spending little time with them. He didn't necessarily hate them. He simply saw them as his loyal colonies whom he'll provide protection so long as they respect his authority. Thus, most of his dealing with the Original Thirteen was mainly formal check-ups and business dealings. This in turn allowed the Original Thirteen to develop independently from England, having them grow use to his absence. Such a distant relationship didn't become a problem until after the French and Indian War.

Ever since France threatened his colonies, England became more attentive of the Original Thirteen's activities. Plus, he needed them more than ever to help get him out of his war debt. Having gotten used to his transparent rule, the Original Thirteen began to view England's actions as intrusive. The ones with the loudest voices were the ones to irk England the most. He tried to reason with them, enacting appropriate measure to have them behave. However, his actions backfired. Literally.

The Englishman still finds the Original Thirteen at fault for turning America against him. At first, he saw them as traitorous, mindless children who needed to be put into order. He tried, twice, to get the Original Thirteen back, but failed. He continues to hold a grudge against most of them ever since the American Revolution. After some time, however, he's able to move on and get along with them on occasion, at least the ones who were the most neutral to him.

As for the rest of the States of America, they mostly see England as America's former caretaker and that posh, British dude. Some of the younger States will get on England's nerves with their obnoxious pranks on him. As for England's view on the rest of the States of America, he mostly sees them as a bunch of immature teenagers and adults whom he could barely give them any sort of respect. But overall, everyone seems to mind his presence and be respectful toward one another.

Next on the list is another significant country whom is a part of the main trio to colonize the Americas.

France or Francis Bonnefoy was known to colonize a few colonies, but he did play a prominent role on influencing them. Unlike in England's case, his North American colonies didn't necessarily revolt against him. Instead, he either lost them to other countries (notably England) or sold them. The second action had the most impact as seen with the Louisiana Purchase, doubling the size of the United States as a result.

Some of the States that formerly made up the Louisiana Territory (not the Territory of Orleans whom would eventually become the State of Louisiana) had either little connection or memory of the Frenchman, or are really close to him. In fact, some of the New England States like Vermont and Maine have more of a connection to France due to inheriting his French influences from his people and their neighbor in the North.

Anyway, with the few times they interacted with France, they were mostly good since France was rather peaceful in his colonization, at least compared to other colonizers. However, France didn't really spend his resources trying to develop his North American colonies for he was partially in debt after his wars with his neighbors. He mostly had them for fur trades with the natives, and that's about it. He did develop certain regions, particularly the area that would be the State of Louisiana for she was a vital shipping port, essential in his plans for a French Empire in the New World. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to develop his colonies, and ended up selling them to America.

Developed regions like Louisiana, having become attached to France, were heartbroken when he sold them to America. They were rather upset with his decision at first, but over time have forgiven him to an extent. Of course, France did apologize to them, even to the ones whom barely had a connection with him. He continues to keep in touch with them and have conversations with them as their big brother.

As for the rest of the States of America, they see France as the cool French dude whose perverted behavior can weird them out at times, but they find him reliable when it comes to his big brotherly wisdom and support. Including his former colonies, France, too, loves the States of America in all their weirdness. Overall, it's hard to hate on the Frenchman.

As for the next colonizer, he's a whole different story entirely.

Spain or Antonio Fernández Carriedo is known for colonizing most of Latin America and South America, however, he did have some colonies in North America. Compared to England and France, however, Spain was rather careless with his colonies, mostly exploiting them for resources while searching for gold (England and France were also looking for gold, however, they gave them up in favor of other plans. Plus, there's beaver). In effect, he caused a lot of damage, especially toward the natives whose civilizations crumbled as a result of his recklessness. Indeed, he's compassionate and friendly, but he sucked when it comes to caring for his colonies (other than Romano).

While he did keep most of the resources to himself, he did put in some effort into colonizing and governing his colonies, most specifically in relation to mission-style work. Even then, the poor treatment of his colonies allowed such colonies to grow resentful of him, leading to most of them revolting against the Spaniards in charge in favor of independence. In particular, his North American colonies under Mexico rebelled and were able to become free of Spanish rule. While resentful of their actions, Spain was more depressed than angered seeing how hated he was. Even more upsetting, he wasn't able to get them back due to his failing strength upon his fall from grace as an influential country.

Most of his North American barely had any connection to Spain as he didn't develop them a whole lot, not to mention him being more focused on gold than actually colonizing them. Even for the ones he did try to colonize, they remain a bit resentful of him for doing a poor job. For Florida, having been sold off to America, she was quite disappointed in him for being powerless in not only protecting her, but also his inability to develop her properly. She's, however, grateful for his influence on her. As for Texas, she found him to be a nice man with flaws, but knew she was better off with Mexico than with him. Plus, she found more of a connection with Mexico as her brother, so she felt obligated to support him over Spain.

Many years losing his North American colonies, Spain tries to get along with most of them, however, he's left in this awkward position of animosity as such States don't really remember much of him, or if they did he would most likely get cursed at. As for the rest of the States of America, they like Spain for his personality. Spain, too, likes the States of America although he could barely keep count of them nor could he remember most of them. Overall, he's usually nicely treated by those outside the familial grounds of colonization.

Later in this book, I've dedicated a side chapter to Mexico. Not only did I introduce the country as an OC who'll occasionally appear in this series alongside a summary of their history, but I've also explained their relation to the States of America. Feel free to read that later in this book. In short, he's mostly seen as an older brother to the Southwestern States while his Mexican States are seen as fellow siblings to them as well.

While England, France, and Spain are usually the main three to develop North America, there's also another country who was involved, specifically in the development of the 49th state.

Russia or Ivan Braginsky had touched upon the west coast of North America, however, he didn't really colonize a particular area. California and Oregon may have seen him during their childhood, but they didn't really know the Russian all that well. As for the rest of the States of America, they mostly have a skeptical view of the Russian due to their "cold" history with him. As for Russia, he mostly sees the States of America as miniature Americas, so his view on Americans hasn't changed all that much.

The one exception to this case is Alaska whom was formerly a Russian territory until the late nineteenth century. She saw Russia as her big brother, loving very much until he sold her to America. Although disheartened at first, she remains fond of him despite Russia not feeling the same way, especially after learning the amount of oil and gold in her home. Overall, their relationship is neutral although this may change with current American-Russian relations.

Besides the four mentioned above, there were other countries that tried to colonize North America. Sweden and Netherlands did play a role in the initial colonization of North America, specifically in the East before England came and whooped their asses. The States who were involved did get an inkling of the two although they may not remember it all that well considering their time was short. The aforementioned countries probably have faint memories of those colonies as well. Overall, they're rather indifferent toward one another although some of the other States whom have strong Swedish and Dutch influence may better interact with those two countries.

The same can be said for the other countries who haven't colonized the States of America, but did play a role in influencing them with their own people migrating to America. For the Italy Brothers, they're often greeted kindly (maybe except Romano) by States with a relatively large Italian influence. The same goes for Germany, and Prussia may have possibly helped the Original Thirteen in the American Revolution. For Japan, he has a strong relationship with Hawaii in particular. For China, he gets along well with California. And let's not forget Canada and his provinces and territories! Especially for the Northern states that border Canada, they get along well like neighbors (whom I explain in a side chapter).

There are many more countries who do have some kind of relationship, but these are just to name a few. Whether they're seen as weird or childish, the countries respect the States of America to an extent just like how they respect America. Although, some more than others.

Before concluding this side chapter, let's talk about the States of America and their relationship with one another.

The 50 States regard each other in various ways depending on their history and situation. Some relationships are more notorious than others whether in the real world or in fanfiction. Even for those who don't like each other's guts, there are no intentions of inflicting major harm on each other. It's hard to explain each and every State's relationship with one another without having to go on forever. After all, there are fifty of them plus the nation's capital.

However, I did write a few notorious examples whom are listed below:

Massachusetts and Maine are siblings by blood. Maine was once the District of Maine, once a part of Massachusetts until her statehood. Besides sharing a few common traits, they behave the complete opposite with Maine being more composed than her sailor-cursing brother. The two get along which can come as surprising since most State siblings tend to argue more than talk. Despite their differences, they care for one another with Maine looking up to her older brother and Massachusetts protecting his younger sister.

Virginia and West Virginia are also siblings by blood with West Virginia formerly being, well, the western part of Virginia. Their relationship grew tense up to the Civil War when West Virginia separated itself to stay in the Union. While unconstitutional, the federal government accepted West Virginia which in turn pissed off Virginia. Eventually their relationship grew better although that doesn't mean they talk to each other often. In addition to their contrasting personalities and disagreements, their sibling relationship is considered tame since they don't bicker as much as other siblings.

New York and New Jersey grew up in similar situations, once being a part of New Amsterdam, although I personally don't see them as brothers by blood. From what I looked up, their differences include clogging up each other's traffic, sports, and their egos. In this fanfiction, I characterize York as being serious most of the time while Jersey is more of a jokester. They don't necessarily despite each other's existence. It's more about each other's flaws and proving who's the better of the two.

North Carolina and South Carolina are twin sisters whom have slight differences to where if a person were get it wrong they'll be scolded by both sisters. South Carolina sees her twin to be a tomboy who's inferior to her in every way while North Carolina see her twin to be a stuck-up princess whose vanity makes her a poor role model. Whenever they're together, they usually end up in petty fights with an occasional major dispute once in a while. Rarely do they share the same opinion or worked together, yet somehow they're always together no matter where they go. Like a two-headed snake, they always try to bite each other's heads off, yet they exist together as a whole.

Kentucky and Tennessee aren't related, but they share a similar culture. As such, they share a strong friendship that's similar to brotherhood. They both love to drink, they love their country music, they love horses, they love the countryside, rarely do they disagree with one another. They're that close. Other than an occasional sport rivalry, their friendship is to be cherished.

Ohio and Michigan is a poisonous rivalry that's as intense as New York's and New Jersey's. The reason for their hatred can be traced back to a past territorial issue (explained in Michigan's chapter). As a result, the two hate each other's guts, refusing to get along whatsoever. Their relationship is often teased as being lovey-dovey of sorts in a special way although Ohio can point out otherwise with the bruises he has received from Michigan's wrenches. Whatever view one may have on their relationship, everyone can agree they mean trouble when they meet eye to eye.

Florida and the 50 States is a strange relationship. For one, there is a general dislike toward Florida although the States themselves don't necessarily hate Florida. They mostly see her as weird, often joking about the stupid things she and her people have and have done. Florida knows they are joking although they'll sometimes get on her nerves with their dick jokes. Unless it involves a presidential election, they usually get along.

Texas and the 50 States is a mixed bag of various kinds of dislike. Conservative values, a huge ego, a noisy nature, a gun-loving idiot, horrible food, the list goes on. Truthfully, Texas couldn't give a shit about their opinions as she knows she's the best. There are times both Texas and the rest of the States of America get along despite their differences. Overall, this disliking holds some truth while being a joke altogether.

California and Oregon share a close friendship while being nice next-door neighbors to one another. While they share the same interests such as their love for animals, they do have their differences with Cali being known for her lack of responsibility while Oregon likes to keep things in order. Despite finding Cali annoying at times, Oregon does enjoy her company although she wishes the Californian to mature more like her. As for Cali, she wishes Oregon loosened up a little although she does appreciates the Oregonian's innocence. Overall, there's nothing to complain about their relationship.

Kansas and Nebraska is an unique relationship I often question on whether they would be sisters who are related or are really good friends. In the end, I settled on them being adopted sisters of the sort. Despite being the more well-known sister of the two, Kansas looks up to Nebraska's maturity, often asking her for advice and whatever things she needs. As for Nebraska, she initially took pity on Kansas in their beginnings although she has since deeply cared for Kansas's well-being. I rarely see the two's relationship in other Hetalia fanfiction, so I'm excited to showcase more of their ventures together.

Nevada and Illinois have a slim connection with their links to the Mob, therefore influencing me to have them become best buds. Their personalities differ with Nevada being the more collected one compared to Illinois's casual personality. The two are seen as troublemakers, so everyone advises each other to watch over the two carefully. Even though there's little historical connection between the two, I still think of them being good friends.

Colorado and Wyoming is a story of two cowboys. Colorado is a carefree, beer-drinking, weed-taking, blue guy versus Wyoming, a tough, sober, green-hating, red guy. What's interesting about their rivalry is the fact it's one-sided with Wyoming holding a grudge toward his neighbor. Colorado is cool with Wyoming despite their differences although he'll defend himself if Wyoming were to talk ill of him. Overall, their relationship isn't as toxic as the others, but they do disagree.

North Dakota and South Dakota are twins like the Carolinas although they get along better. To be frank, the Dakota in the real world actually have a rivalry and they do hate each other more than their neighbors. While I do acknowledge their differences, I didn't want them to necessarily hate each other. Personality wise, North Dakota is the earnest twin while South Dakota is the energetic twin. They do fight on occasion, however, it isn't as toxic as one might think.

Arizona and New Mexico are siblings more closely related than the rest of the Southwestern States. Their personalities contrast one another with New Mexico being quiet and timid compared to Arizona's outspoken and boisterous behavior. New Mexico tries to correct Arizona's childish behavior, however, he's rarely taken seriously. Arizona sees him as a worrying crybaby who needs to loosen up and let her do her thing. Their relationship is rather fortunate seeing as most siblings are known to argue with one another.

Alaska and Hawaii aren't related nor do they share a lot of common traits. Yet, Hetalians tend to put the two together which is quite understandable. I mean, they're cute together! Having both become the last States to join the Union, combine the fact they're distant geography makes them feel out of place among the mainland States, they'll come to relate to one another's situation. They may not be able to stand each other's weather, but they get along better than most States who are related by blood.

As said before, there are many States I could explain. However, I wish to conclude this side chapter or it'll go on forever. I may come back to this subject in another side chapter. Hopefully everyone understands my reasons for cutting this chapter short.

In summary, relationships between these States of America OCs with one another and other countries are complicated. Other Hetalians may have their own interpretations that differ from mine which I understand. This is my own interpretation which will transfer in my future writings in this series. Overall, this side chapter should serve as my explanation of their relationships whom I hope everyone understands and see be explored.

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What's written below is a topic I personally disagree with, however, it relates to the side chapter. Thus, I apologize to those I offend or disagree, but keep in mind this is my opinion, therefore please respectful if planning to comment. Anyway, back to the subject at hand.

I mentioned America being seen as either a friend or a brother figure of sorts from the States' perspective. However, another popular relationship seen in various fanfiction is the 50 States seeing America as a father figure. Personally I disagree with that notion. My main reason is due to the age gap where some States such as the Original Thirteen were created/born around the foundation of America. I believe some of the States to be older than America, thus I found them calling America their father wouldn't make much sense.

Another reason I disagree with that headcanon is a personal reason. After reading various States of America fanfiction, I get irked seeing the States call America "daddy". I understand such fanfiction is based on the States being America's children. To me, however, all I see is that age gap where America is a nineteen year old dad raising over fifty kids of various young ages; some whom are teenagers. All of which seems weird to me in my opinion.

Again, I apologize to those who favor the idea of the 50 States being America's sons and daughters. I'm not downright antagonistic toward the idea. But know for this fanfiction I don't depict America as a father figure toward the States of America. At the very least, I wanted to at least mention a popular depiction in States of America related fanfiction in case anyone decides to write their own fanfiction based on the 50 States. Although be cautious with this idea as I've seen this idea get botched up to where it seems awkward to me at least. Some stories do this idea right, so I'm usually cool with those stories.

In summary, I prefer to depict America as a goofy friend and childish brother toward the States of America than as a father figure.

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Feel free to vote or leave a comment on your thoughts of the 50 States' relationship with America, another nation, or each other here.