Georgia

Table of contents
Updated February 16, 2024 | Infoplease Staff
State Flag of Georgia

Capital: Atlanta

 

Official Name: State of Georgia

Organized as a territory: April 24, 1802

Entered Union (rank): January 2, 1788 (4th)

Present constitution adopted: 1983

State abbreviation/Postal code: GA

State Area Codes: 229, 404, 470, 478, 678, 706, 762, 770, 912

Fun Facts About Georgia

Nickname: Peach State

Origin of name: Named after King George II of England

Motto: “Wisdom, Justice, Moderation”

Slogan: "Georgia on My Mind"

State symbols

Flower: Cherokee Rose (1916)

Tree: Southern Live Oak (1937)

Animal: White-Tailed Deer (2015)

Bird: Brown Thrasher (1970)

Fish: Largemouth Bass (1970)

Vegetables: Vidalia Onion (1990), Collard Greens (2017)

Gem: Quartz (1976)

Colors: Red and Black (2003)

Song: "Georgia on My Mind" (1979)

Poem: "Georgia" by Ernest Neal (1935)

Grass: Indian Grass (2001)

Fossil: Shark Tooth (1976)

Insect: Honeybee (1975)

Question: What is the state butterfly? Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (1988)

Government

Governor: Brian Kemp, R (to Jan. 2023)

Lieut. Governor: Geoff Duncan, R (to Jan. 2023)

Secy. of State: Brad Raffensperger, R (to Jan. 2023)

General Treasurer: Lynne Riley, R (to Jan. 2023)

Atty. General: Chris Carr, R (to Jan. 2023)

U.S. Representatives: 14

Senators: Jon Ossoff, D (in office to Jan. 2027); Raphael Warnock, D (in office to Jan. 2023)

Official Website: https://www.georgia.gov

Population

Residents: Georgians

Resident population: 10,617,423 (8th Largest State, 2020)

10 largest cities (2020 statistics): Atlanta, 498,715; Augusta, 197,888; Columbus, 195,769; Macon, 153,095; Savannah, 145,862; Sandy Springs, 109,452; Roswell, 94,763; Johns Creek, 83,884; Albany, 77,434; Warner Robins, 77,617.

Demographics

Religion: Protestant (70%); None (20%); Catholic (9%); Other religions (1%).

Race/Ethnicity: White (60.2%); Black or African American (32.6%); Hispanic or Latino (9.8%); Asian (4.3%); Two or More Races (2.1%); American Indian and Alaska Native (0.5%); Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander (0.1%).

Sex: Male: 5,164,173 (48.6%); Female: 5,453,250 (51.4%).

Age: Under 18: 2,549,362 (24%); 18-64: 6,798,441 (64%); 65 and over: 1,269,620 (12%). Median Age: 36.8.

Sex: Male: 5,250,285 (49.4%); Female: 5,367,138 (50.6%). Age: Under 18: 2,641,770 (24.9%); 18-64: 6,879,383 (64.7%); 65 and over: 1,370,913 (12.9%). Median Age: 37.2.

Geography

Land area: 57,513 sq mi. (148,959 sq km)

Geographic center: In Twiggs Co., 18 mi. SE of Macon

Number of counties: 159

Largest county by population and area: Fulton, 1,036,200 (2020); Ware, 908 sq mi.

State forests: 10

State parks/recreation areas: 63

See additional census data

Area codes

Tourism office

Map of Georgia

 

The "Peach State" of Georgia, situated in the southeastern United States, is known for its blend of Southern charm, bustling metropolitan areas, picturesque landscapes, and rich history. The state's capital, Atlanta, is a thriving hub of commerce, arts, and culture. Savannah, with its well-preserved historic district and storied past, offers a contrasting charm of its own. In the northern part of the state, the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains stand as a testament to Georgia's natural beauty, while the Okefenokee Swamp to the south offers an entirely different spectacle of the state's biodiversity.

Georgia Geography

Georgia's geography is as diverse as it is beautiful. From the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains in the north, home to stunning waterfalls and hiking trails, to the Piedmont region with its rolling hills, to the coastal areas bordering the Atlantic Ocean and the Chattahoochee River, Georgia offers a multitude of landscapes. The state's major cities, including Atlanta, Augusta, Athens, and Columbus, are hubs of activity amid these natural wonders. The climate varies from the cooler mountain regions to the warm, humid coastal area, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Georgia People & Population

Georgia boasts a diverse population of over 10 million residents. A blend of races, religions, and cultures make up the Georgian demographic, with Protestant as the dominant religious group. The state's population is almost evenly split between male and female residents, and the median age hovers around 37 years. The largest ethnic groups include White, Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, and Asian. The history of these groups offers a study of cultural richness and geographic concentration that has shaped Georgia.

Georgia Government

The government of Georgia is headed by the Governor, currently Brian Kemp, a Republican. The state's government structure also includes a Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, General Treasurer, and Attorney General. Notably, Georgia's General Assembly is one of the largest state legislatures in the nation. Georgia has a history of fluctuating between Democrats and Republicans in elections, as evident in the recent runoff elections.

Georgia Economy

The state of Georgia's economy is robust and diverse, with major sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, service industries, and health care. Atlanta, home to the world's busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, is a significant hub for travel and commerce. The Georgia Department of Economic Development is actively engaged in promoting business growth and investment in the state. The state's natural resources, including forests and mineral deposits, also contribute to the Georgia economy.

Georgia Interesting Facts

Georgia, the "Peach State," is renowned for its southern hospitality, rich Civil War history, and the legacy of civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr. The state's culture is a blend of southern tradition and modern innovation.

Georgia Music

Georgia has made significant contributions to the music industry, with Atlanta being a significant hub for hip-hop, R&B, and country music.

Georgia Cuisine

Georgia's cuisine is famous for its southern cooking, featuring dishes like peach cobbler, fried chicken, and grits. The state's Vidalia onions are renowned for their sweetness.

Georgia Sports

Sports are a significant part of Georgia culture, with the state hosting professional baseball, football, and basketball teams. High school sports also play a big role in communities throughout the state.

Georgia History

Georgia's history extends from pre-colonial times to the present day, characterized by periods of significant change and development. From its founding by James Oglethorpe in 1733 to its role in the Civil War as a Confederate state, through its post-war recovery and modern growth, Georgia's history is as diverse as its geography.

Pre-Colonial History

Before colonization, the area now known as Georgia was home to several indigenous tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee tribes.

Colonial History

In 1733, Georgia was established as a British colony and named in honor of King George II of England. During the American Revolution, Georgia was one of the 13 colonies that revolted against British rule.

Pre-Civil War History

Georgia was a key player in the Antebellum South, characterized by plantation agriculture and slavery.

Post-Civil War History

Following the Civil War, Georgia underwent significant changes during the Reconstruction era, emerging into the 20th century with industrial growth and urban development.

Modern History

From the civil rights movement in the mid-20th century to the population and economic growth of the 21st century, modern Georgia continues to evolve and develop, making its mark on the U.S. and the world.

People Also Ask…

If you are interested in more information about Georgia, then keep reading — we have compiled answers to the most common questions below. Plus, test your newfound state knowledge by taking our quiz, "How Well Do You Know the Peach State?"

What is Georgia known for?

Georgia is famously known as the "Peach State" due to its significant peach production. It's also recognized for its southern hospitality, diverse geography which includes beautiful mountains, vibrant cities, and scenic coastal areas, as well as its significant role in Civil War history.

What is the population of Georgia?

Georgia has a diverse population of over 10 million residents, making it one of the most populous states in the U.S.

Who is the current governor of Georgia?

The current governor of Georgia is Brian Kemp, a member of the Republican Party.

What are the major industries in Georgia?

Georgia's economy is diverse, with significant sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, service industries, and health care. Atlanta, the state's capital, is a hub for travel and commerce due to housing the world's busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

What is the state capital of Georgia?

The state capital of Georgia is Atlanta, a bustling city recognized as a commerce and arts hub.

See more on Georgia:
Encyclopedia: Georgia
Encyclopedia: Geography
Encyclopedia: Economy
Encyclopedia: Government
Encyclopedia: History
Monthly Temperature Extremes

Selected famous natives and residents:

 
The 50 States of America | U.S. State Information
The 50 States of America | U.S. State Information
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