It was the very first to sign the U.S. Constitution in 1787, helping launch the new nation. Small in size but big in history, Delaware led the way for all the states that followed.
Delaware joined the Union on December 7, 1787.
Delaware is the 2nd smallest state with a land area of 1,948 square miles.
Delaware has a higher population of chickens than people.
The Delaware Bay is home to one of the largest population of horseshoe crabs in the world.
It’s where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. The Liberty Bell still stands as a symbol of freedom for people across the nation.
New Jersey played a key role in America’s fight for freedom! More Revolutionary War battles were fought in New Jersey than in any other state. Its brave soldiers and strong communities helped secure the nation’s independence.
New Jersey joined the Union on December 18, 1787.
New Jersey has the highest population density in the U.S.
New Jersey is known as the ‘Diner Capital of the World’ and has more diners than any other state.
Thomas Edison invented the first practical light bulb in his New Jersey laboratory.
Georgia helped shape America from the very beginning! As one of the original 13 colonies, it played an important role in the nation’s early growth. Its farms, forts and coastal towns helped support the fight for independence and the building of a new country.
Georgia joined the Union on January 2, 1788.
Georgia was the first state to change the legal age to vote from 21 to 18.
Georgia has five different capital cities before Atlanta.
Georgia is home to the world's largest aquarium.
Connecticut helped build America’s early government! As one of the original 13 colonies, it introduced ideas about self-rule that shaped the nation’s laws. Its spirit of independence helped lay the groundwork for the United States.
Connecticut joined the Union on January 9, 1788.
Connecticut is home to Scoville Memorial Library – the first publicly funded library in the U.S.
The first American dictionary was created in Connecticut.
Connecticut’s Fundamental Orders of 1639 are considered one of the first written constitutions in the world.
It was home to the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock and the Boston Tea Party. The courage and ideas born in Massachusetts inspired the American Revolution and the birth of a new nation.
Massachusetts joined the Union on February 6, 1788.
Four U.S. Presidents were born in Massachusetts.
Harvard University, founded in 1636 in Massachusetts, is the oldest college in the U.S.
The first lighthouse built in the U.S. was built in in Massachusetts’ Boston Harbor in 1716.
Maryland played a big part in America’s early history! As one of the original 13 colonies, it supported the fight for independence and helped shape the nation’s founding. Its ports and people were key to building the new United States.
Maryland joined the Union on April 28, 1788.
Maryland is often referred to as “America in Miniature” due to the variety in its terrain.
Maryland donated land in 1790 to help create the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.
Annapolis served as the capital of the U.S. from 1783 – 1784.
As one of the original 13 colonies, it was home to important Revolutionary War battles and bold leaders. Its bravery and determination helped the new nation win its independence.
South Carolina joined the Union on May 23, 1788.
Charleston, South Carolina is home to the oldest Museum in the U.S.
Columbia was one of the earliest capital cities named after Christopher Columbus.
South Carolina’s Morgan island is uninhabited by people and home to thousands of monkeys.
As one of the original 13 colonies, it was the first to create its own government separate from Britain. Its bold step helped inspire the birth of the United States.
New Hampshire joined the Union on June 21, 1788.
New Hampshire has the largest state legislature in the U.S.
New Hampshire is one of two states that have no state income or sales tax.
New Hampshire has the shortest coastline of any coastal state in the U.S. – only about 18 miles.
Virginia played a major role in America’s beginnings! It was home to many Founding Fathers, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Key ideas about freedom and leadership were born there. Its history helped shape the nation from the very start.
Virginia joined the Union on June 25, 1788.
Virginia is the birthplace of eight U.S. Presidents.
Virginia is home to the first English settlement in the U.S., Jamestown.
Virginia has 21 national historic landmarks, including Mount Vernon and Monticello.
New York has always been a gateway to America! From the Statue of Liberty welcoming new immigrants to the nation’s first capital in New York City, it’s a place where big ideas, freedom and opportunity have shaped the American dream.
New York joined the Union on July 26, 1788.
New York is one of the most linguistically diverse places in the world, with 800+ languages spoken.
New York is home to the oldest state park in the U.S. - Niagara Falls State Park.
New York was the first state to require license plates on cars.
As one of the original 13 colonies, it issued the Mecklenburg Resolves an early call for freedom from Britain. Its courageous spirit helped shape the nation’s fight for liberty.
North Carolina joined the Union on November 21, 1789.
North Carolina has three distinct regions: the Mountains, the Piedmont and the Coastal Plains.
The Wright brothers completed the first successful powered airplane flight in North Carolina in 1903.
The nations first gold rush took place in North Carolina.
It was the first colony to declare independence from Britain and the last to join the new nation. Its bold stand for liberty helped shape America’s earliest ideals.
Rhode Island joined the Union on May 29, 1790.
Rhode Island is the smallest U.S. state by area.
Because of its size, all Rhode Island residents are within about 30 miles of the ocean.
Providence is the most populous city in Rhode Island.
Vermont brought a strong spirit of independence to America ! Before joining the United States, it was its own republic with its own laws and leaders. Its famous Green Mountain Boys defended freedom and helped shape the nation’s early ideals.
Vermont joined the Union on March 4, 1791.
Vermont is the largest producer of maple syrup in the U.S., producing about 2.5 million gallons a year!
Vermont was the first state to join the Union after the 13 colonies.
Montpelier is the least populated capital city in the U.S.
Known as the “Gateway to the West,” it was home to pioneers like Daniel Boone who explored new frontiers. Its brave settlers and rich wilderness helped shape the nation’s early expansion.
Kentucky joined the Union on June 1, 1792.
Kentucky is home to the world’s longest cave system - Mammoth Cave National Park.
Abraham Lincoln was born in LaRue County, Kentucky.
The Kentucky Derby is the longest continuously held sporting event in the U.S.
Tennessee played a bold role in America’s early growth! Known as the “Volunteer State,” its citizens were famous for stepping up to serve in important battles. Tennessee’s pioneers, leaders and frontier spirit helped shape the nation’s expansion and strength.
Tennessee joined the Union on June 1, 1796.
Tennessee is borded by eight states - tied with Missouri for the most in the U.S.
Tennessee is home to the most visited national park in the U.S. - Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Nashville, Tennessee is known as the “Music City.”
Ohio helped power America’s early growth! Known as the “Birthplace of Presidents,” it was home to many national leaders. Its farms, factories and inventors helped drive the country forward during the nation’s expansion and industrial boom.
Ohio joined the Union on March 1, 1803.
Ohio is the birthplace of seven U.S. Presidents.
Ohio’s state flag is a swallowtail shape, making it the only nonrectangular flag in the U.S.
Ohio is home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Louisiana added America!
The Louisiana Purchase in 1803 nearly doubled the size of the United States, opening the way for westward exploration. Its unique blend of cultures, music and history has shaped the nation ever since.
Louisiana joined the Union on April 30, 1812.
Louisiana is the only state in the U.S. that uses parishes instead of counties.
Louisiana is known as the birthplace of jazz.
Louisiana’s capitol building is the tallest state capitol building in the U.S., standing 450 feet tall.
Indiana helped shape America’s frontier spirit! As settlers moved west, it became a key gateway for new communities and growing industries. Its farms, factories and strong Midwestern values helped build the nation’s early strength.
Indiana joined the Union on December 11, 1816.
Indiana means “Land of the Indians,” honoring the many Native American tribes who lived there.
More than half of Indiana’s land is farmland.
Corydon was Indiana’s first state capital until it moved to Indianapolis in 1825.
Mississippi played an important role in America’s early growth! Its mighty river became a major route for travel and trade, helping farmers and towns connect to the rest of the country. Mississippi’s history and culture have shaped the nation’s southern story.
Mississippi joined the Union on December 10, 1817.
Approximately 62% of Mississippi’s land is forest.
Mississippi is the largest catfish producer in the U.S. Belzoni, Mississippi is considered the catfish capital of the world.
Jackson, Mississippi sits above an ancient, extinct volcano.
Illinois helped shape America’s growth!
It was home to Abraham Lincoln, whose leadership kept the nation together during the Civil War. From prairie pioneers to big city builders, Illinois has always stood for hard work, freedom and progress.
Illinois joined the Union on December 3, 1818.
Built in 1885, The Home Insurance Building in Chicago is known as the world’s first modern skyscraper.
Illinois is known as the ”Land of Lincoln” because Abraham Lincoln lived in Illinois for most of his life.
Illinois has had six different capitol buildings in its history.
Alabama helped shape America’s southern story! Its farms, rivers and early industries supported the nation’s growth. Alabama is also known for courageous leaders whose actions helped move the country toward greater equality and change.
Alabama joined the Union on December 14, 1819.
The first rocket to put man on the moon was built in Alabama.
Montgomery, Alabama became a major starting point of the Civil Rights Movement in 1955 with Rosa Parks.
Alabama has more waterways than any other state except Alaska, with 77,000+ miles of rivers and streams.
Maine added strength and spirit to America’s early growth! Known for its rugged coast and hardworking communities, it became a state during a key moment in U.S. history. Maine’s ships, sailors and natural beauty have long helped shape America’s story.
Maine joined the Union on March 15, 1820.
Maine is the largest lobster producing state in the U.S.
Around 90% of Maine’s land is Forest, making it the most forested state in the U.S.
There are over 4,000 islands off the coast of Maine.
Missouri helped guide America’s push westward! It was the starting point of the Oregon Trail and home to pioneers heading into new territory. Known as the “Gateway to the West,” Missouri played a key role in expanding and shaping the nation.
Missouri joined the Union on August 10, 1821.
Missouri is borded by eight states - tied with Tennessee for the most in the U.S.
Jefferson City, Missouri was named after U.S. President Thomas Jefferson.
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri is the tallest monument in the U.S. at 630 feet tall.
Arkansas helped shape America’s frontier story! Its mountains, rivers and forests supported early settlers moving west, and its communities grew with the nation. Arkansas’s natural resources and strong pioneer spirit played an important part in America’s expansion.
Arkansas joined the Union on June 15, 1836.
U.S. President Bill Clinton was born in Hope, Arkansas.
Arkansas’s state flag has 25 stars to symbolize it becoming the 25th state.
Arkansas is home to the only public diamond mine in the U.S.Crater of Diamonds State Park.
Its Great Lakes made it a major center for shipping and exploration and later its factories helped spark the nation’s auto industry boom. Michigan’s innovation and natural resources have played a big role in shaping America.
Michigan joined the Union on January 26, 1837.
Michigan has more miles of freshwater shoreline than any other state in the U.S.
Michigan is split into two peninsulas - the Upper Peninsula (U.P.) and the Lower Peninsula.
Before Lansing, Detroit was the capital city of Michigan.
Florida has played a colorful role in America’s story! Home to early explorers, Native nations and coastal forts, it helped shape the nation’s southern frontier. When Florida became a state in 1845, it added rich culture, warm coastlines and new connections to a growing America.
Florida joined the Union on March 3, 1845.
Florida has the longest coastline in the continental U.S.
Florida is the only place in the world where both alligators and crocodiles live in the same habitat.
Florida is home to the oldest city in the U.S. - St. Augustine.
Texas brought bold spirit & independence to America’s story! Once its own republic, it later joined the United States and helped shape the nation’s growth westward. Texas’s pioneers, leaders and big ideas have played an important role in building the country.
Texas joined the Union on December 29, 1845.
Texas has 254 counties, which is more than any other state in the U.S.
Texas is the second largest state in the U.S. in both size and population.
Texas was its own independent country for nearly 10 years before joining the U.S. in 1845.
Iowa helped feed & grow America! Its rich farmland became a major source of food for the nation, and its small towns supported westward expansion. Iowa’s hard work and innovation have long played a key role in strengthening the country.
Iowa joined the Union on December 28, 1846.
Iowa is the only state bordered by two parallel major river systems –The Mississippi and The Missouri.
Over 85% of Iowa’s land is farmland, and much of it is used to grow corn.
Iowa’s state capitol building is known for its gold-covered dome.
Its forests, farms and Great Lakes ports supported early settlers and growing industries. Wisconsin’s hardworking communities played an important role in shaping the nation’s northern frontier.
Wisconsin joined the Union on May 29, 1848. spirit!
Wisconsin is the largest cheese producing state in the U.S. and is often called “America’s Dairyland.”
Madison, Wisconsin is one of the only U.S. cities built on an isthmus, a narrow strip of land between two lakes.
Wisconsin is home to the only publicly owned major-league sports team in the U.S.
California helped transform America’s growth imagination! The Gold Rush brought people from around the world, sparking new communities and ideas. From innovation to agriculture to the arts, California’s energy and creativity have shaped the nation in big ways.
California joined the Union on September 9, 1850.
California is home to coast redwood trees which are the tallest trees in the world.
Sacramento is known as the “Farmto-Fork Capital of America.”
California has nine national parks which is more than any other state in the U.S.
Minnesota helped shape America’s northern frontier! Its lakes, forests and early river towns supported explorers, traders and growing communities. Minnesota’s natural resources and hardworking spirit have long contributed to the nation’s development.
Minnesota joined the Union on May 11, 1858.
Minnesota is nicknamed the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” but actually has over 11,800 lakes.
St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota are called the ”Twin Cities.”
Minnesota has over 90,000 miles of shoreline throughout the state.
Oregon helped open America’s path to the Pacific! Pioneers traveled the Oregon Trail to build new communities in the Northwest. Its forests, rivers and coastline played a big role in shaping the nation’s frontier and westward expansion.
Oregon joined the Union on February 14, 1859.
Oregon is home to Crater Lake which is the deepest lake in the U.S. at 1,943 feet deep.
Oregon produces around 98% of America’s hazelnuts.
Oregon has had three capitol building due to fires burning down the first two.
Kansas played a key role in path to freedom! Known as “Bleeding Kansas,” the state became a major battleground over slavery before the Civil War. The courage of its settlers helped push the nation toward justice and change.
Kansas joined the Union on January 29, 1861.
Kansas is often the largest sunflower producing state in the U.S.
Kansas is home to the geographic center of the contiguous U.S.
The Kansas sate capitol building took 37 years to build form 1866-1903.
It became a state in 1863 after choosing to remain loyal to the Union during the Civil War. Its mountains, miners and strong communities have long played an important part in America’s story.
West Virginia joined the Union on June 20, 1863.
The world’s first brick paved road was laid in Charleston, West Virgina.
The majority of West Virginia is covered in mountains, including the Appalachian, Blue Ridge and Allegheny ranges.
West Virginia has been a top coal producing state or over 100 years.
Nevada opportunity!
The discovery of the Comstock Lode brought huge silver riches that helped support the nation during the Civil War. Nevada’s spirit of adventure and wide-open landscapes have shaped America’s story in the West.
Nevada joined the Union on October 31, 1864.
Nevada has over 300 mountain ranges which is more than any other state in the U.S. besides Alaska.
Nevada is the driest state in the U.S., averaging only about 7 inches of rain per year.
Nevada is the largest gold producing state in the U.S.
Its wide prairies became home to pioneers, railroads and important trails heading west. Nebraska’s farms and hardworking communities have long played a key role in feeding the nation and building its frontier.
Nebraska joined the Union on March 1, 1867.
Nearly 92% of Nebraska’s land is made up of farms and ranches.
Nebraska is the largest corn producing state in the U.S. Arbor Day was founded in Nebraska in 1872, encouraging people to plant trees.
Colorado helped shape America’s frontier spirit! Its towering mountains and mining towns drew explorers and settlers west, fueling the nation’s growth. Colorado’s natural beauty and adventurous history have long contributed to America’s story.
Colorado joined the Union on August 1, 1876.
Colorado joined the Union 100 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed.
Denver, Colorado sits a mile above sea level making it one of the highest capital cities in the U.S.
Colorado has 58 mountain peaks that are over 14,000 feet.
Its wide prairies were home to Native nations, pioneers and early farming communities that fed a growing nation. North Dakota’s rugged landscapes and hardworking spirit have long been part of America’s story.
North Dakota joined the Union on November 2, 1889.
Dakota comes from a Sioux word meaning ‘friend’ or ‘ally.’
North Dakota’s capitol building is one of the the tallest buildings in the state.
North Dakota is home to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park which is the only national park named after a U.S. President.
South identity!
Its prairies and Black Hills were home to Native nations, pioneers and historic trails. Landmarks like Mount Rushmore celebrate leaders who helped build the nation’s story.
South Dakota joined the Union on November 2, 1889.
South Dakota is home to Mount Rushmore, one of the most famous national monuments in the U.S.
The Missouri River splits South Dakota into two regions: East River and West River.
South Dakota was named after French fur trader Pierre Chouteau Jr.
Montana helped shape America’s wild frontier! Its mountains, plains and Native nations guided explorers, ranchers and settlers moving west. Montana’s wide-open landscapes and rich history have long been part of America’s adventure and growth.
Montana joined the Union on November 8, 1889.
Montana is home to more elk, deer and antelope than humans.
The Triple Divide Peak in Montana’s Glacier NP is one of the only places in the world where water flows into the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic Oceans.
Helena, Montana was founded by an accidental gold discovery in 1864.
Its forests, rivers and coastal ports supported explorers, traders and new communities. Washington’s natural resources and innovative spirit have long contributed to the nation’s growth and connection to the Pacific.
Washington joined the Union on November 11, 1889.
Washington is the only state to be named after a U.S. President.
Washington is home to the largest ferry system in the U.S. that goes across the Puget Sound.
Washington is the largest apple producing state in the U.S.
Idaho helped build America’s frontier & farming strength! Its rugged mountains and fertile valleys supported miners, settlers and growing communities. Idaho’s natural resources and hardworking spirit have long played a role in shaping the nation.
Idaho joined the Union on July 3, 1890.
Boise, Idaho is the largest city in the state and has been the capital since 1864.
Idaho is home to over 70 types of precious and semi-precious stones.
Idaho the largest potato producing state, growing around 1/3 of all potatoes in the U.S.
Wyoming helped shape America’s spirit of West! It was home to early pioneers, ranchers and the nation’s first national park Yellowstone. Wyoming also made history by granting women the right to vote, helping lead the country toward greater equality.
Wyoming joined the Union on July 10, 1890.
Wyoming is the least populated state with around 578,000 people.
Wyoming was the first U.S. territory and state to give women the right to vote.
Every year, Chyenne, Wyoming hosts the world’s largest outdoor rodeo - Chyenne Frontier Days.
Utah helped shape America’s western frontier & innovation! Pioneers built new communities in its desert valleys. The completion of the transcontinental railroad in Utah connected the nation coast to coast. Utah’s landscape and ingenuity have long contributed to America’s growth.
Utah joined the Union on January 4, 1896.
Utah’s name comes from the Ute Tribe, and is often said to mean “people of the mountains.”
Salt Lake City, Utah is the largest city in the state.
Utah is home to five national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef.
Oklahoma story! It was home to many Native nations and later became a key place for settlers during the Land Runs. Oklahoma’s rich history, resilience and unique blend of cultures have helped shape the nation.
Oklahoma joined the Union on November 16, 1907.
Oklahoma got its nickname due to settlers arriving sooner than allowed during the Land Run of 1889.
Oklahoma is home to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma hosts one of the largest livestock markets in the world.
New to America’s story!
Home to ancient Native communities, Spanish explorers and frontier settlers, it helped shape the nation’s Southwest. New Mexico’s traditions, landscapes and creativity have long enriched the U.S.
New Mexico joined the Union on January 6, 1912.
Albuquerque, New Mexico hosts the world’s largest hot air balloon festival.
Santa Fe, New Mexico was founded in 1610, making it the oldest capital city in the United States.
New Mexico’s State Capitol, called the Roundhouse, is the only circular state capitol building in the U.S.
Arizona helped shape America’s Southwest spirit! Its deserts, canyons and ancient Native communities guided explorers and settlers moving west. Arizona’s striking landscapes and rich cultures have long played an important role in America’s history and identity.
Arizona joined the Union on February 14, 1912.
Arizona is home to the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Phoenix is the largest state capital in the U.S. by population with over 1,600,000 people.
Arizona has one of the longest stretches of Route 66.
Alaska expanded America to the far North! Its glaciers, mountains and wildlife drew explorers & adventurers. The U.S. purchase of Alaska opened a new chapter of opportunity. Its rich Native cultures and remarkable landscapes have added to America’s story.
Alaska joined the Union on January 3, 1959.
Alaska is the largest state in the U.S. by area - even larger than Texas, California and Montana combined.
Juneau is the only U.S. capital city that is inaccessible by car.
Alaska is home to Denali, the tallest mountain in North America at 20,310 feet.
Hawai’i brought rich culture & a new horizon to America’s story! Its islands were home to a powerful Native kingdom long before becoming a U.S. state. Its unique traditions, volcanoes and ocean history expanded the nation into the Pacific.
Hawai’i joined the Union on August 21, 1959.
Hawaiʻi is the only state in the U.S. to have two official languages: English and Hawaiian.
The Hawaiian islands: Hawaiʻi (the Big Island), Maui, Kahoʻolawe, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi, Oʻahu, Kauaʻi and Niʻihau.
Hawaiʻi’s capital city of Honolulu is located on the Oʻahu.
