Country that can make us initially.. (6,6)

I believe the answer is:

united states

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'country' is the definition.
(I know that United States is a North American country)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for united states that I've seen before include "National federation" , "Country, capital Washington DC" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app