New Jersey, the 12th largest state in the United States, is located in the northeastern part of the country. It is bordered by New York and Pennsylvania to the north, Delaware Bay to the southwest, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. This densely populated region has a rich history and culture.
In the early colonial era, the Lenni-Lenape people inhabited the region. Later, New England Congregationalists, Scots Presbyterians, and Dutch Reformed settlers also settled in the area. During the 17th century, New Jersey became part of the Province of New York.
During the early 19th century, settlers arrived in the region from New York and New England. Some townships developed into important ports. There were few large estates, though. The majority of the residents lived in towns with individual landholdings of at least 100 acres.
New Jersey’s geographic features vary widely throughout the state. Northern New Jersey is dominated by the Appalachian Mountains, while the southern half of the state is more rural and includes the Pine Barrens. Both areas have their own unique climates. Winters are cold, with a few inches of snow accumulating during the winter months. Summers are hot and humid.
The region is home to 35 wineries. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours of these vineyards. The state has also become a center of research, as well as an industrial and commercial hub. Products from over 20,000 manufacturers can be delivered to over 100 million consumers.
New Jersey is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies. Many of these companies are located in the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Counties in the northern portion of the state are also home to a number of oil refineries. Other major cities in the state include Lakewood, Edison, Jersey, Paterson, and Newark.
New Jersey has a rich cultural heritage and ethnic diversity. Most residents speak English, although Spanish is the second most common language in the state. The state has a large variety of microbrews, including Cape May Brewing, Flying Fish, Cricket Hill, and others. Among the most popular snacks are submarine sandwiches and pizza. Another favorite is sausage sandwiches.
The city of Newark is the most populous in the state. Jersey City is also a big city, with the population of over one million. Trenton is the capital of the state. While most of the population is in urban areas, there is a small population of people living in suburban neighborhoods.
New Jersey’s culture has been influenced by both New York and Philadelphia. While the older generations are more conservative, the younger generation is more diverse. Especially in the northern part of the state, residents are loyal to professional sports teams.
The state’s nickname, the “Garden State,” is due to the fact that most of the state is covered with fertile river valleys. Also, the state ranks among the highest producers of almost all garden vegetables and peaches.
The state’s main symbol is the violet. This flower has been an official state symbol since 1971.