Cape cod

Cape Cod is a geographic cape and peninsula that extends into the Atlantic Ocean from the southeastern corner of mainland Massachusetts, in the northeastern United States. Its historic, maritime character and ample beaches attract heavy tourism during the summer months.

History

Cape Cod was formed as the terminal moraine of a glacier, resulting in a terrain of rolling sand dunes currently covered with parts of the Atlantic coastal pine barrens ecoregion. It was first inhabited by the Native American Wampanoag tribe, who had a large settlement at Plymouth. The cape was among the first places settled by the English in North America.

Geography

Cape Cod forms a continuous archipelagic region with a thin line of islands stretching toward New York. The cape's small-town character and large beachfront attract heavy tourism during the summer months. The Cape Cod Canal, completed in 1914, connects Buzzards Bay to Cape Cod Bay; its creation shortened the trade route between New York and Boston by 62 miles.

Economy

The economy of Cape Cod was historically based on maritime industries, including whaling and fishing. Today, the economy is more diverse, with a strong focus on tourism, healthcare, and education.

Culture

Cape Cod has a rich history, with many cultural institutions, including the Cape Cod Museum of Art, the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra, and the Cape Playhouse. The region is known for its arts scene, with numerous galleries, music festivals, and theater companies.

See also

• History of Cape Cod
• Geography of Cape Cod
• Economy of Cape Cod
• Culture of Cape Cod