About The Oldest State In America
“The First State” became the official State nickname
A state is defined as a politically organized territory with a defined geographic boundary, a permanent population, a government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states.
Delaware is the first state, and therefore oldest state in America. Delaware is known by the "First State" nickname due to the fact that on December 7, 1787, it became the first of the 13 original states to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
“The First State” became the official State nickname on May 23, 2002 following a request by Mrs. Anabelle O'Malley's first grade class at Mt. Pleasant Elementary School. The state is known for its long history, having been settled by Europeans in the 17th century.
Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Lenape and Nanticoke tribes. European colonization started with the Dutch in 1631, followed by the Swedes, then the English.
Delaware was first settled by Dutch traders in the early 17th century and later became an English colony. The state played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, serving as the site of the Battle of Cooch's Bridge, one of the conflict's earliest battles.
The state is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. It is the second smallest state by land area ( approximately 1,982 square miles) and the sixth least populous state in the country. Its capital city is Dover, and its largest city is Wilmington. The oldest city in the state of Delaware is Lewes, and is referred to as "The First Town in the First State."
On the Eastern Seaboard of the United States, Delaware is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, as well as by the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland. Delaware's location affords easy access to the major metropolitan areas of the Northeast. Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Baltimore are all within a 2-hour drive.
Delaware also boasts a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, theaters, and historical sites. Some of its most popular destinations include the Hagley Museum and Library, the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, and the Brandywine Valley.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating in Delaware's many state parks and natural areas. The state's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from industries such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing.
America's first state is home to a number of major corporations, including DuPont and JPMorgan Chase. Overall, Delaware is known for its historical significance, economic vitality, and coastal beauty, making it a unique and dynamic state in the United States.