Have people always looked at the individual states in a strictly political way?

We hear/read it all the time:
California sucks- lose em
Texas sucks-lose em
Red states, blue states.
When I think of California I think of the Redwood Forest, the Pacific coast.
When I think of Texas I think of Big Bend National Park and the Rio Grande.
If I had unlimited time and money I'd spend a lot of it exploring the jewels all 50 has to offer.
F**k politics.

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rfatoday · 70-79, M

Born and raised here in CA and lived here all my life. I agree... we spend way too much on politics and generalization of "the other respective side", both personally and geographically. We get back what we put out. Both of my former rural neighbors either side of me were strong liberals/progressives. In fact, I was told by one couple I was the only "Republican/conservative" friend they had. Yet we got along great and they were also good friends and periodically asked how I was doing after I moved to where I am now. We'd politely discuss politics, yes, but never arguments or name calling. We spent more time talking California history, hobbies, etc. There is a lot of wonder in each of our states indeed!

Ynotisay · M

@rfatoday I have a similar experience from the other side of the fence. I live in a rural, mountain area and don't share the same political perspectives as many of my neighbors. And it's never been an issue. I could be wrong but I've always had the sense that being fellow Californians, and sharing an experience, takes precedent.