Discovering Alabama and its wonderful history
Dubbed as the Yellowhammer state since the civil war, Alabama is a source of rich heritage that has a treasure chest full of stories to tell. They have an abundant collection of museums that tells tales of what this state has gone through. Discover the life of Helen Keller, who calls Alabama her birthplace. The Civil Rights Movement was also known to have been born it this rich land. Many Native American people have also rooted themselves in Alabama, tribes such as the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Creek, Choctaw, Mobile and Koasati have once called Alabama home, many of their traditions and cultures still live on. The name Alabama originally meant as tribal town in the Creek Indian language. All of these you can see when touring Alabama with the trails that have been laid to fully enjoy this rich legacy.
Alabama is the 22nd state of the United States of America; it became a state in December 14, 1819. Alabama is the 30th largest state of the nation; it has 135,765 sq. km. of total area. Its economy is based on the products it land provides. Alabama's agriculture yields poultry and eggs, nursery stock, peanuts, cattle, vegetables, cotton, milk, and soybeans. Its industrial outputs are paper, rubber and plastic products, lumber and wood products, mining, transportation equipment and clothing.
Alabama’s state motto is “Audemus jura nostra defendere” which means “We Dare defend Our Rights”. This has been proven with the Civil Rights Movement which was prolific in this state. The flag of Alabama is a red St. Andrews cross (a diagonal cross) set on a plain white background; it was adapted by the Alabama state legislature on February 16, 1895. The largest city of Alabama State is Birmingham while its capital is Montgomery.
From its northern point down to its southern most point, Alabama is divided into four regions. Its Northern part is the Mountain regions. This region provides a mesmerizing landscape which can be quite invigorating. Many artists have rendered this region into their canvasses because of the shimmering lakes, vast tree covered mountain tops, breath taking waterfalls and caverns. Next to that is the metropolitan region, here you’ll see a diverse mix of modern amenities with which you will find everything you may need and everything that other cities may offer. Ranging from the super speedway, you’ll get all the racing you’ll want to the markets where fresh produce are sold for a little countryside taste. Further south is the river heritage region; here you’ll find a plethora of history and natural beauty that is a must-see for any tourists. Highly recommended places of interest include the civil rights landmarks in Selma, Gaineswood Plantation in Demopolis, Auburn University in the Auburn-Opelika area, and the state Capitol buildings in Montgomery. Exploring this region can take weeks but is a very worthwhile experience. At the southern tip you’ll find the Gulf Coast region. This region boasts of world class beaches with powdery white sands that can compete with the best in the world. Also, this region will not be without its share of museums and history. He Old Courthouse Museum in Monroeville and some historic forts should be in the top of the itinerary.
Probably one of the most famous Alabamians is Hank Aaron who was born from Mobile; a stadium is named after him in honor of his great achievements. Another famous ballplayer from Alabama is Willie Mays who was born in Westfield. Another popular Alabamian is singer Nat “King” Cole, he made Alabama proud with his stellar singing career, Cole was from Montgomery. Other famous Alabamians are Joe Louis, Carl Lewis and Jesse Owens, all athletes that made their marks in the sporting world. And then of course there is Rosa Parks, her story as a civil rights activist shall always be known, she was the woman who wouldn’t get off the bus, Alabama indeed fights for their rights.
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