Georgia is the 24^th Largest among the United States, spanning an area of 57,919 sq mi and water area of 1522 sq mi. It acquired statehood on January 2, 1788. Georgia is the 4^th state of the 50 United States of America. The early colony was named in honor of King George II of Great Britain. Georgia is nicknamed the Peach State. The name refers to the famous peaches grown in Georgia's orchards.

Geography of Georgia

Capital City: Atlanta
Population & Density: As per the recent census, the population is above 8.8 million and its growing everyday. Population density is 141.4 persons per sq mi.
Largest cities: Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Savannah, Athens, Macon Roswell, Albany, Marietta, Warner.
Neighbor States: Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee.
Natural Treasures: Gem - Quartz, Mineral - Staurolite.

State Facts:

Georgia Motto: Wisdom, Justice, and Moderation
State Symbols: Bird - Brown Thrasher, Fish - Largemouth Bass, Flower - Cherokee Rose, Tree- Live Oak, Song - "Georgia On My Mind," with music by Hoagy Carmichael and lyrics by Stuart Gorrell.

Economy of Georgia

Personal income per Capita - $21,154 (Recent census - 1999)
Agriculture - Poultry and Eggs, Peanuts, Cattle, Hogs, Dairy Products, Vegetables.
Industry - Textiles and Apparel, Transportation Equipment, Food Processing, Paper Products, Chemical Products, Electric Equipment, Tourism.

History of Georgia

In 1788, Georgia becomes the 4^th state. Manufacturing increased during World War II (1939-1945), helping the economy to recover. Many Georgians moved to the cities to work factories in the defense industry. After the war, industries continued to expand as several businesses moved into the state. Recently, new industries are continuing to expand in Georgia. State legislation is being passed to help education. The state is also trying to solve problems with overpopulation and pollution.

The Georgia flag has three red and white stripes and the state coat of arms on a blue field in the upper left corner. Thirteen stars surrounding the seal denotes Georgia's position as one of the original thirteen colonies. On the seal three pillars supporting an arch represent the three branches of government; legislative, judicial and executive. A man with sword drawn is defending the Constitution, whose principles are wisdom, justice and moderation. The date 1776 represents the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Flag adopted May 8th, 2003.

Famous people of Georgia

Gladys Knight (1946-) Singer and winner of four Grammy awards, he was born in Atlanta.
Juliette Low (1860-1927) Founder of the Girl Scouts of America, she born in Savannah.
Margaret Mitchell (1900-1949) Author of Gone with the Wind (1936) that won a Pulitzer Prize, was born in Atlanta.
Little Richard (1944-) Singer, considered to be "the architect of rock and roll", was born in Macon.

Interesting Facts about Georgia

• Georgia was the first state to allow 18-year-olds to vote.
• Historic Saint Marys Georgia is the second oldest city in the nation.
• Stone Mountain near Atlanta is one of the largest single masses of exposed granite in the world.
• Georgia is the nations number one producer of peanuts, pecans, and peaches.