What 3 countries in the world do not use the metric system?

The Holdouts: The Three Countries That Still Resist the Metric System

Despite its widespread adoption, the metric system has not gained universal acceptance. In fact, only three countries in the world have yet to adopt the metric system: the United States of America, Liberia, and Myanmar.

1. United States of America

The United States is the most notable holdout of the metric system. While the metric system was officially adopted for use in the U.S. in 1975, its implementation has been slow and inconsistent. Many industries, such as construction and manufacturing, continue to use imperial units almost exclusively.

The resistance to the metric system in the U.S. is often attributed to familiarity with imperial units, inertia, and a perception that the metric system is too complex. Despite efforts by the government and various organizations to promote the metric system, it has not gained widespread adoption in everyday life.

2. Liberia

Liberia is a small country in West Africa that was founded by former slaves from the United States. The country adopted the imperial system of measurement during its early years, and it has remained in use since then.

The use of imperial units in Liberia is closely tied to the country’s historical connections with the United States. Many of Liberia’s institutions, including its educational system, were modeled after the American system, which used imperial units.

3. Myanmar

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a country in Southeast Asia. The country adopted the metric system in 1989, but its implementation has been gradual. In many sectors, imperial units continue to be used alongside metric units.

The use of imperial units in Myanmar is likely due to the country’s history of British colonialism. During the colonial period, the British introduced the imperial system into Myanmar, and it has remained in use to some extent ever since.

Conclusion

The metric system is the dominant system of measurement worldwide, but it has not been universally adopted. The United States, Liberia, and Myanmar are the last remaining countries that still primarily use the imperial system. The reasons for their continued resistance to the metric system vary, but they all reflect a combination of familiarity, inertia, and historical connections.