New Jersey is one of the most densely populated states in the United States. Most of the state’s population lives in the northeastern and southern counties surrounding New York City. As a result, many residents commute to Pennsylvania.
Most New Jerseyans prefer to live in the suburbs. However, there are a number of urban centers in the state, including the city of Princeton. The city is home to Princeton University, the Ivy League institution. It also has an extensive transportation system. This enables the citizens to commute to Philadelphia or other major cities in the Northeast.
New Jersey’s geography is complex. Some parts are mountainous, and other areas are coastal. In the south, Pine Barrens cover much of the state. Towards the north, the Appalachian Mountains divide the state. On the east, the Hudson River separates it from the Atlantic Ocean. To the west, the Raritan River separates it from Pennsylvania.
Historically, New Jersey remained rural. However, in the early 17th century, Dutch and Swedish colonists founded the first European settlements in the state. During the early 20th century, New Jersey became an important industrial and commercial center. Several towns and townships became ports. During the Great Depression, New Jersey offered begging licenses to unemployed residents.
Today, the largest city in the state is Philadelphia. Counties shaded green are part of the Philadelphia metropolitan area. A number of Fortune 500 companies are located in the state.
New Jersey’s transportation network is one of the busiest in the world. Transportation in the state is centered in the three major cities. All of the major local television stations are located in Philadelphia.
New Jersey is a Democratic stronghold. It is home to the New Jersey Democratic Party, which controls both houses of the legislature. Currently, the party has a 10-to-2 advantage over the Republicans in both houses.
New Jersey has many cultural associations. There are many religious communities, museums, and halls of fame in the state. One of the most famous celebrities to come from the state is Frank Sinatra. He was born in Hoboken and sang in neighborhood amateur shows.
The state’s cuisine is unique. While it is influenced by New York, it has its own distinctive taste. Spanish speakers can be found throughout the state.
While New Jersey’s climate is mild during the summer, its winters can be cold. Snow can fall up to two feet. During the winter, rainstorms are common, and the temperatures can dip down below freezing for long periods.
New Jersey is home to the Morris Canal, which allows coal from eastern Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley to be transported to the northern part of the state. The Morris Canal was built in 1831. Many of the industries that developed in the northern part of the state were located in the city of Newark, as well as in Jersey City.
New Jersey has a rich history. The state was among the Thirteen Colonies that supported the American Revolution. During the Civil War, New Jersey remained in the Union. After the war, it emerged as an important center of immigration. Among the immigrants that settled in the state were English Anglicans, Scots Presbyterians, and Dutch Reformed migrants.