Why do some states have more Representatives than other states?

The number of Representatives each state has in the House of Representatives is determined primarily by the state's population, as reflected in the decennial census. This is rooted in the principle of proportional representation, which is a fundamental aspect of the U.S. legislative system intended to ensure that each citizen’s vote carries equal weight regardless of where they live. States with larger populations are allocated more Representatives, while those with smaller populations receive fewer. This system allows for excellent representation of the diverse interests and needs of the country.

The other options, while they may have some relevance in different contexts, do not directly influence the number of Representatives. Historical significance, geography, and the length of statehood do not impact population counts and, consequently, how many Representatives a state has in the federal government. This ensures that the voice of the populace is reflected accurately in legislative decisions, aligning with democratic principles of representation.