Perhaps I should have emphasized the difference in scales on these maps. The following might help both sides visualize the sheer vastness of North America compared to the relatively compact countries of Europe:
The U.K. would fit into the area occupied by Oregon with a little room to spare (94,283 sq. miles U.K. vs. 96,187 for Ore.).
The whole of the Republic of Ireland is only about 10% bigger than West Virginia.
Switzerland is only just over half the size of Maine.
Even France, largest country in western Europe, would fit into Texas and still leave a space about the size of North Carolina left over.
As for the Canadian provinces, Ontario alone is almost the size of Norway, Sweden, and Finland combined.
Let's not forget the very small countries in Europe.
Luxembourg is a mere 999 square miles, smaller than Rhode Island.
Tiny Andorra, at 180 sq. mi. is a whole country only three times the size of Washington, D.C.
