The Corner Side Yard

Why Call It “The Rust Belt”?

I’m open to other names for the region. But until there’s another name that’s as evocative as this one, I’m keeping it.

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Pete Saunders
Feb 02, 2025
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There’s a question I get every so often in social media – “why do you use the term “Rust Belt”?“ Usually it comes from people who live in the region, who dislike the term and wish for some kind of rebranding. I agree. But what’s better?

Before I discuss options, let’s talk about the term “Rust Belt” itself. There are many thoughts on the origin of the te…

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