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State Symbols

Why Is Illinois Called the “Land of Lincoln”?

The "Land of Lincoln" is the nickname and official state slogan of Illinois, a reference to United States President Abraham Lincoln’s early political career there. Abraham Lincoln first served in the Illinois General Assembly beginning in 1834. His presidency might…

What are the Regions of the United States?

The United States is often divided into logical geographical zones, but the country can also be divided into cultural regions, political regions, and other types of divisions to suit the needs of whatever analysis is being made. The general regions…

Why Is Utah Called the Beehive State?

Utah is known as the Beehive State because beehives are synonymous with industry and perseverance, values which were praised by Utah's founders. Bees are famously hard workers, toiling tirelessly for the well-being of their hive. Beehive Symbolism Utah's early settlers,…

Why is Missouri Called the Show-Me State?

Missouri’s nickname as the “Show-me State” comes from an ultimately undetermined source, though there are a number of different stories and legends regarding the phrase and how it came to be connected with the state. Among these various stories, the…

Why Is Maryland Called the Old Line State?

“The Old Line” refers to early Revolutionary War soldiers who hailed from Maryland and distinguished themselves in battle. In military parlance in the 1770s, a “line” meant a regiment. By 1780, Maryland’s line referred to itself as “old” in correspondence…

Why Is Kentucky Called the Bluegrass State?

Kentucky’s official nickname is “the Bluegrass State” because of how prolific the type of grass known colloquially as “bluegrass” is throughout most of the state’s lands. Bluegrass is a specific type of grass belonging to the scientific genus Poa, and…

Why Is Florida Called the Sunshine State?

The state of Florida is the southernmost state on the continental United States, boasting both peninsula and panhandle landforms. Due to its location as the closest U.S. state to the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator, Florida is renowned for…

Why Is Arkansas Called the Natural State?

Arkansas is called "The Natural State" because it has vast wilderness, natural resources, and diverse wildlife in many areas. It also has a thriving agricultural sector and environmental protection acts that serve to protect the natural resources residents have long…

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