America: 50☆Stars (Vol. 3)

Episode 27: The Big Three

The Big Three is a popular term used to describe the three biggest states in America.

Its origins could be traced back to the late 17th century when the United States conducted its first census. The nickname didn't catch on at first due to disagreement—a story for another time. But slowly over the decades, with the census becoming more efficient and more accurate in measuring a growing and changing American population, the Big Three evolved to become more than a term used for rankings. It became a grandiose title symbolizing power, prosperity, and popularity. There was no denying their impact, influence, and importance. The Big Three were a great force to be reckoned with. It made other states jealous, encouraging some of them to work hard in the hopes of becoming one of the top three states in America. As such, the Big Three as a group wasn't constant; it was always changing in membership. Although, some could argue there was one constant in the trio: New York.

The Empire States had been a member of the Big Three for a long time. He had been a part of the group since the turn of the 19th century, eventually taking the number one spot by 1810. Since then, he sat comfortably on his lofty throne for many years, looking down at lesser states like they were villages compared to the massive empire he'd built. The sole reason for his dominant reign was all thanks to the most prized crown jewel in his possession: New York City. By controlling the most populous city in the United States, New York made it almost impossible for other states to catch up to his position. Some states had gotten close, but their efforts were usually never enough to overthrow him. He was always out of reach. In the envious eyes of many states below his feet, it seemed impossible to take down the egotistic emperor—until 1964 rolled around the corner.

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"Wooooo! I did it! I'm number one! I'm number one! Kiss my ass, dudes, cuz I'm number one!" California did a silly dance atop a golden podium while everyone reluctantly applauded her success.

Elsewhere in the room, New York still couldn't wrap his head around the 1970 United States census posted on the bulletin board. "I-Impossible!" He took a step back and looked to Washington D.C. in scathing disbelief. "This has to be an error or an April Fools' prank. I haven't been in second place since 1800. I'm usually always first."

"No, it's not an error or an April Fools' prank." She showed him a spreadsheet detailing the censuses of past years. "Since the end of World War II, California has experienced the largest amount of growth compared to everyone else."

"But I have the most populous city."

"Yes, you still do." She reacted indifferently to his frustration.

"It doesn't make sense!"

"It does make sense after you do basic math." She showed him another chart listing the rankings of multiple cities. "The answer has been in front of you since 1964. You just refuse to accept it."

He gritted his teeth. "Okay. I admit she has more populated cities than me."

"Sooooo," California popped up behind his shoulder with a cheeky smile, "like, you're finally admitting I'm the more popular state?"

"Sure..."

"Hooray! The evil empire has been defeated—"

"Shut the fuck up! I'm still better than the rest of you! I'm still part of the Big Three!" New York shouted at the other states, silencing their celebration. "I may not be first, but second place isn't something to scoff at. Besides, I can always make a comeback."

"I doubt it," California giggled. "Sorry, dude. You'll never get back to being first again as long as I'm around."

"Fuck off! There's always a chance," New York huffed. "Aside from you, I won't let another state surpass me. Never again!"