This “debate” has always intrigued me for some reason.
Apparently it has done the same for others as well – hence this map.
Personally, I say “soda” when making a general reference.
Interestingly, it would seem the southern west coast, center Midwest around St. Louis, and northern east coast all typically share the same term for a soft drink.
And to think the west and east coast will ask us if we grow corn in our front yard.
Believe it or not, you can actually see a bit of history in this map when you start to think about things like the first railroad lines being built across the country.
[via: strangemaps.wordpress.com]