Sandman has put together the concept of an "Appalachian Redoubt" based on the solid premise that much of the Appalachian chain is populated by strong, smart, moral people with more shared culture than differences. The geographic area is resource-rich, defensible, and productive.
Not only are the mountains a natural, physical impediment to the genetic waste occupying most of the major metro areas of the eastern seaboard from Richmond/Norfolk to Boston, the contrast in personalities is vivid and stark. The people and manners and morals of those who call the Appalachians home echo to the best of our Founding era, and call to us all as where we should seek to return as a people. The people, manners and morals of those in Boston, NY, Philadelphia, Baltimore, DC, Richmond are a different breed - one we would all be wise to avoid.
Yes, I am painting with a broad brush. No, I'm simply not in the mood to nuance this post. Either you get it, or you don't. While I am personally a Chesapeake lad, my parents both were born within the outline of the map above. As were all of their parents. And many, many others in my bloodline as well...
I do not see a downside.
Here's the discussion happening at Max Velocity's place on the topic.
Kerodin
III
