I’m a bit hazy on it, but perhaps I can add a detail or two if you want to research it more.
I believe that there is some difference in how they were formed, especially after the 1945 creation of the U.N.
The STATES *OF* [48 states...] are subordinate corporate entities of the UNITED STATES (all caps). This includes Commonwealths, btw.
These corporate entities are overlays on the sovereign states. They exist because we, as citizens, as people, participate in them, WE keep them going.
I’m hazy on this, but FWIW: I believe HI and AK’s corporate overlords are not the UNITED STATES CORP.
Also, noteworthy, is that there is a process to reclaim your status as a sovereign People. If you botch it, there can be serious consequences, like jail. You MUST reclaim your sovereignty prior to trying to exercise your reclaimed rights with impunity. There are various websites and seminars that outline this stuff, and some are bogus. I attended a seminar last weekend from Bobby Lawrence. David Straight also does a reputable seminar.
I stated that wrong, pardon me:
They exist because we, as citizens, as persons...
A person is NOT a People (Blacks Law dictionary).