heartland
n. countablen. the central part of a country or region that is most important for its culture, economy, or politics. It is often the area where a specific group of people or a set of beliefs is strongest.
n. the central or most vital part of a region, often associated with a specific cultural, political, or economic identity. Frequently used to describe areas where a particular political party or industry maintains its strongest support.
The candidate is visiting the industrial heartland this week.
The party struggled to maintain its influence in the rural heartland as younger voters moved toward the cities.
The documentary explores how the agricultural heartland has transformed over the last century, shifting from small family farms to massive corporate operations that dominate the local landscape.
Often used in the singular to refer to a specific region ('the heartland').