New Jersey is a northeastern US state with some 130 miles of Atlantic coast. Its cities include the bustling metropolis of New York City and the quieter beaches and towns of the Jersey Shore, while Atlantic City’s casinos pulsate with action. The state capital is Trenton, and its other major cities are Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Edison, Woodbridge, and Lakewood. New Jersey is part of the Northeast megalopolis and is bordered on the north by New York City, on the east by New York, on the south by Pennsylvania across the Delaware River, on the west by Delaware, and on the southwest by Maryland.
In the 19th century, industrialization brought prosperity to many of the state’s towns and cities. But it also led to problems such as child labor and unsafe factories, and helped bring about reforms like welfare laws that protected workers’ rights. These reforms benefited many people in the state, and boosted the popularity of New Jersey Governor and President Woodrow Wilson, who later became the president of the United States.
Today, New Jersey is home to the nation’s busiest ports and is a leading producer of steel, chemical products, pharmaceuticals, electrical equipment, and medical devices. Its diversified economy also includes financial services, information technology, and biotechnology. The state has a large and growing population. The vast majority of its residents are white, but in the early 20th century it was a prime destination for waves of immigrants from other parts of the world, and more than one-tenth of the state’s population is now made up of African Americans and Latinos.
Five northeastern counties—Essex, Hudson, Passaic, Bergen, and Union—contain nearly two-fifths of the state’s population. The densely populated central portion of the state contains several large cities, including Newark and New York City. These urban areas are interspersed with suburban and rural areas, and the state’s mountains offer hiking and skiing opportunities. New Jersey’s diversity has enriched the state culturally, and its many ethnic groups share common values and a strong sense of community. It is no wonder that the state has been dubbed the Garden State. Its rich history is reflected in places such as the Meadowlands District, where more than 265 species of birds can be seen, and at historic sites such as Morristown National Historical Park, where George Washington’s Revolutionary War headquarters were located. New Jersey is known for its vibrant music scene, and it has produced famous songwriters and entertainers. It is also a popular destination for tourists.