New Jersey is a state in the United States located within the Northeast megalopolis. It is bordered on the north and northeast by New York City (across the Hudson River, Upper New York Bay, Kill Van Kull, and Arthur Kill); on the east by the Atlantic Ocean; and on the west by Pennsylvania across Delaware Bay.
The state is famous for its smoky, densely populated urban areas, and is nicknamed The Garden State due to its lush farmland. The state is also known for its high quality public schools, which include Princeton University, Rutgers University, and several other institutions of higher learning. New Jersey is also home to a diverse population with many ethnic and religious groups, including Irish, Italians, Germans, Arab Americans, and Portuguese Americans. The state is a major center for professional sports, with two National Football League teams and three Major League Soccer teams, as well as a large number of minor league and amateur sporting events.
It is part of the New York metropolitan area and is considered a gateway state. It has a rich cultural heritage, and New Jersey residents are known for their strong work ethic. The state has a broad economic base, led by retail, manufacturing, transportation, and distribution industries.
A number of prominent people from New Jersey have achieved success in the arts, entertainment, business, government, the military, and in non-profit leadership. New Jersey is a Democratic stronghold, with Democratic control of the State Senate and Assembly, and both U.S. House of Representatives seats.
The official state symbols of New Jersey are the State flag, State seal, and the State song, “New Jersey Woman”. The State’s colors, buff (yellowish-tan) and dark blue (Jersey blue), were inspired by the uniforms worn by George Washington’s army regiments during the Revolutionary War.
New Jersey was a founding colony of the United States and hosted several pivotal battles during the American Revolutionary War. After the Civil War, it grew rapidly as factories opened and cities expanded. The State’s population remained predominantly urban, and it is one of the most heavily populated states in the nation.
In the modern era, New Jersey is a leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, with a highly educated workforce and a diverse population. The State is also an international transportation hub, with six major airports and numerous seaports.
In addition to its numerous historic sites, museums, and art galleries, New Jersey boasts a thriving culture with a wide variety of entertainment options. From its popular beaches and boardwalks to its diverse cuisine, there is much to see and do in the Garden State. The State’s most well-known attractions include the Newark Liberty International Airport, the Statue of Liberty, and the Jersey Shore. New Jersey is also home to several professional and collegiate sports teams, including the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, which is shared by the New York Giants and New York Jets. The State also has a strong theater and music scene, with venues like Newark’s Broad Stage and Jersey City’s Jazz Arts Foundation.