Why do scientists believe Florida was originally connected to northern America?

Scientists believe Florida was originally connected to northern America due to geological evidence indicating that the region was once part of a larger landmass during the late Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras. Fossils and rock formations found in Florida share similarities with those in nearby regions, suggesting a historical land connection. Additionally, the shifting of tectonic plates and changes in sea levels over millions of years likely led to the eventual isolation of Florida from the mainland. This evidence supports the idea of a once-contiguous land area before the separation occurred.