New Jersey is one of the thirteen original American colonies, joining the Union in 1787. A densely populated state with extensive rail and highway networks, it is also home to major industry. Its cities include Trenton, Newark and Jersey City. The coastal resort areas of Atlantic City and Cape May are also popular tourist destinations.
The State Flag of New Jersey has a buff (light yellow-brown) background, which is reminiscent of the uniform selected by General George Washington for his New Jersey Continental Line. A blue shield with three plows on the center is surrounded by an image of the goddess of liberty and agriculture, which symbolizes the freedom and prosperity that New Jersey has enjoyed since its founding.
Its famous diners are among the most recognized in the world and it is considered to be the “Diner Capital of the World”. Tomatoes from New Jersey are among the finest in the world and are renowned for their tenderness, sweetness and juiciness.
Some of the most recognizable American sports teams play in New Jersey, including the NFL’s New York Jets, MLB’s Philadelphia Phillies and the NHL’s New Jersey Devils. The Garden State is an important center of commerce and finance, as well as a leading technology and biological science industries.
Many of the largest companies in the United States are located in New Jersey, including Verizon and Johnson & Johnson. In addition, the state is a leader in information and medical technology.
It has more than 5,000 information and technology companies, as well as some of the country’s most prominent biotech firms. The state is also home to one of the nation’s most extensive light-rail systems and two fast turnpikes.
Despite its many advantages, New Jersey is known for some of its flaws. It has some of the country’s most crowded streets, its highest population density and one of the most traffic-intensive commutes in the US.
The state is a major center of organized crime, and it has been a source of corruption in both the federal and local levels. It is also a hotbed of controversy over local government powers and home rule.
It was the first state to ratify the Bill of Rights, which protects fundamental liberties. New Jersey was also a major participant in the Revolutionary War and served as a key defense hub during the Cold War.
In addition to its rich history, the state is known for its beaches and a variety of resorts, including the famous Jersey Shore, where visitors enjoy long stretches of fine beach along the Atlantic Ocean. In late October 2012, Hurricane Sandy caused widespread damage to the coast and left millions without power.
New Jersey is a fascinating, diverse state with a complicated mix of urban and rural populations. Its citizens are a highly active and engaged group, but the state is not immune to social problems. Its political system has a long tradition of corruption and is highly volatile. It has produced some of the most able governors in the United States, but it is a fiercely partisan place.