Differential State Character

This topic is fascinating—and my first inclination is to agree with with your idea.
“Different people who moved to each place”

For instance, California (in my opinion) has always led the trends in ideas I consider liberal. I think about the Gold Rush, and the characteristics those people must’ve shared to give up everything and make a run for ‘riches’.

Incredibly generalized and totally unscientific, but hey?

Interested in other opinions.

The mass exodus of "dust bowl refugees" to California produced a people ready for the benefit of a New Deal.