South Carolina

South Carolina State Information

Capital: Columbia 

Official Name: South Carolina

Organized as a territory/republic: 1663

Entered Union (rank): May 23, 1663 (8th state)

Present constitution adopted: 1895

State abbreviation/Postal code: S.C./SC

State Area Codes: 803, 839, 843, 854, 864

Fun Facts About South Carolina

Nickname: The Palmetto State

Origin of name:  The Carolinas were initially named Carolus, the Latin form of the name Charles, in reference to King Charles I of England, who granted the land to Sir Robert Heath in 1629.

Motto: "Dum Spiro Spero” (“While I breathe, I hope”) and "Animis Opibusque Parati" (“Prepared in Mind and Resources”)

Slogan: "Made for Vacation"

State symbols

Color: Indigo Blue (2008)

Flower: Yellow Jessamine (February 1, 1924)

Tree:  The Palmetto Tree (March 17, 1939)

Animal: The Whitetail Deer (1972)

Dog: Boykin Spaniel (1985)

Bird: The Carolina Wren (1948; repealing the former Mockingbird)

Fish: Striped Bass (1972)

Amphibian: Spotted Salamander (1999)

Reptile: Loggerhead Turtle (1988)

Butterfly: Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (1994)

Insect: Carolina Mantid (1988)

Vegetables: Collard greens (2011)

Fruit: Peach (1984)

Gem: The Amethyst (1969)

Song: South Carolina has two state anthems:

"Carolina", initially a poem by Henry Timrod, was set to music by Anne C. Burgess and designated as the state song by a concurrent resolution on February 11, 1911.

"South Carolina on My Mind" was composed and recorded by Hank Martin and Buzz Arledge and designated as the official state song by Act Number 302 of 1984.

Dance: The Shag (1984)

Music: Spiritual genre (1999)

State Poet Laureate: Marjory Wentworth (appointed in 2003)

Grass: Indian Grass (2001)

Fossil: Columbian Mammoth (2014)

Beverage: Milk (1984)

Government

Governor: Henry McMaster (January 1, 2017- )

Lieut. Governor: Pamela S. Evette (Nov., 2018- )

Secretary of State: Mark Hammond (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018)

General Treasurer: Curtis Loftis (2010)

Atty. General: Alan Wilson (2010, 2014, 2018)

U.S. Representatives:  7

Senators: Lindsay Graham, R (2020- ), Tim Scott, R (2022- )

Historical biographies of Congressional members

State website: https://sc.gov/

Population

Residents: South Carolinian

Resident population: 15,282,634 (23rd Largest State, 2023)

10 largest cities: Charleston, 147,928; Columbia, 137,276; North Charleston, 114,542; Mount Pleasant, 88,900; Rock Hill, 72,883; Greenville, 69,725; Summerville, 50,318; Goose Creek, 44,502; Sumter, 42,920; Florence, 39,816.

Race/Ethnicity: White Non-Hispanic (68.6%); African American/Black (26.7%); Hispanic (6.4%); Multi-racial (2.1%); Asian (1.9%); American Indian (0.75%)

Religion: Christian (78%); Evangelical Protestant (35%); Mainline Protestant (16%); Catholic (10%) Non-Christian (3%); Jewish (1%); Hindu (<1%); Buddhist (<1%); Muslim (<1%); Unaffiliated (19%) Atheist (1%)

Sex: Male (48.6); Female (51.4)

Age: Under 18 (21.5%); 18-64 (54.4%); 65 and over (18.5%). Median Age: 40. 

Economy

GDP: 249.81 billion dollars (26th in the U.S., 2023)

Unemployment: 2.90% (2023)

Geography

Land area: 30,055.8 sq mi. (77844.16 sq km)

Geographic center: Richland, 14 mi. SE of Columbia

Number of counties: 46

Largest county by population and area: Greenville, 525,534 (2022); Horry County, 1,134 sq mi

State parks/recreation areas: 46

State Forests: 4

See additional census data

Tourism office

 

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

Located in the southeastern United States, the state of South Carolina is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Palmetto State," South Carolina shares borders with North Carolina to the north, Georgia to the south and west, and is enclosed by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and separated from Florida to the south by the Savannah River. 

As one of the original 13 colonies and the first state to secede from the Union during the American Civil War, South Carolina was historically significant in the formation of the United States. Along with U.S. states such as New York and Virginia, South Carolina is home to some of the oldest cities in the nation, with Georgetown, Camden, and Charleston dating back to the Revolutionary era.

The cultural fabric of South Carolina is influenced by African, European, and Native American heritage. The state is also known for its vibrant music scene, particularly in genres like jazz, blues, and gospel.

In terms of governance, South Carolina has a republican form of government, with a governor serving as the chief executive. The state legislature consists of a House of Representatives and a Senate.

While South Carolina has made significant strides in various aspects, challenges such as poverty, education disparities, and environmental issues remain. Overall, South Carolina offers a mix of historical significance, natural beauty, cultural diversity, and economic opportunities that make it a unique and fascinating state in the United States.

South Carolina Geography

Nestled in the southeastern region of the United States, South Carolina is a state that boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes. From the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains in the west, through the rolling hills of the Piedmont, to the sun-kissed beaches of the Atlantic coastline, South Carolina's geography is as varied as it is beautiful.

Size and Position

With a total area of 31,113 square miles (80,583 square kilometers), South Carolina is located in the southeastern region of the United States. Roughly 30,203 square miles (78,226 square kilometers) of the total area is land, and 910 square miles (2,357 square kilometers) consist of inland water. The state extends 273 miles (439 kilometers) from east to west and has a maximum north-south extension of 210 miles (338 kilometers).

South Carolina is bordered by its sister state, North Carolina, to the north and northeast, while the southeastern boundary is formed by the Atlantic Ocean. Georgia lies to the southwest and west, with the boundary passing through the Savannah and Chattanooga rivers.

South Carolina is home to several major sea islands in the Atlantic, including Bull, Sullivans, Kiawah, Edisto, Hunting, and Hilton Head, which is the largest island (42 square miles or 109 square kilometers) on the Atlantic seaboard between New Jersey and Florida. The total length of South Carolina's boundaries are 824 miles (1,326 kilometers), including a coastline that spans 187 miles (301 kilometers). The tidal shoreline extends for 2,876 miles (4,628 kilometers). The geographic center of the state is located in Richland County, approximately 13 miles (21 kilometers) southeast of Columbia in the Midlands region.

Landscape and Climate

South Carolina consists of diverse geographical features, divided into three main regions: the Atlantic Coastal Plain, the Piedmont, and the Blue Ridge. The Atlantic Coastal Plain covers two-thirds of the state, gradually rising from the southeast to the northwest. Within this plain, there are distinct areas such as the Outer Coastal Plain, characterized by flat terrain and rivers with inland swamps, and the Inner Coastal Plain, featuring rolling hills and fertile soils.

To the northwest lies the Piedmont, marked by higher elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The landscape consists of rolling hills that become more hilly towards the west and northwest. The Fall Line separates the Piedmont from the Atlantic Coastal Plain, where upland rivers descend to the lower plain. The Blue Ridge Mountains are found in the northwestern corner of South Carolina.

Although lower and less rugged than their counterparts in North Carolina, these forested mountains rarely exceed 3,000 feet in elevation, with Sassafras Mountain, standing at 3,554 feet, being the state's highest point. The climate is predominantly humid subtropical, characterized by hot summers across most of the state. However, there are exceptions in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where some areas have an oceanic climate. The eastern and southern parts of the state generally experience mild winters, while the northwestern region, particularly areas at or above 600 feet in elevation, has cooler winters that can occasionally be cold.

The climate of South Carolina is mostly humid and subtropical; however, during the winter, the state is overtaken by the cold and dry continental air mass. In the summer, their climate is influenced by the Bermuda high-pressure cell in the Atlantic, resulting in heat and humidity, which make up the characteristic climate of South Carolina.

The state has an average annual precipitation of about 49 in (125 cm) statewide, with the coastal regions receiving approximately 50 in (127 cm). The Blue Ridge area gets up to 80 in (203 cm) per year. The temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) near the coast to 38°F (3°C) in the mountains at the start of the year, while temperatures average 81°F (27°C) near the coast and 71°F (22°C) in the mountains by mid-year.

South Carolina People and Population

The state of South Carolina was among the fastest-growing states in 2022, coming in third, based on calculations taken from the U.S. Census Bureau. Moreover, the population in South Carolina grew 1.7% from 2021 to 2022, for a total of 5,282,634. South Carolina's population growth has been slow and inconsistent throughout its history. Unlike other regions, the state did not experience significant European immigration due to its stagnant economy and limited industrial development. The state had a predominantly black population until the early 20th century when outmigration to the North caused a shift to a white majority.

Age

According to the 2022 U.S. census, over half of South Carolina's population (54.3%) is aged between 18 and 64, with 21% of the state's residents being under 18 years of age and 19% being over 65 years old.

Gender

In 2022, a little over half (51.3%) of South Carolina's residents identified as female.

Ethnicity

Ethnically, over 68% of residents in South Carolina identified as white, and 26.3% identified as African-American. Close to 7% identified as Hispanic, with an estimated 2% being Asian.

Religion

According to the Pew Research Center's Religious Landscape Study, 78% of adults in South Carolina identified themselves as Christians. Approximately 19% of the population were unaffiliated with any religious faith, while a little over 1% identified as Jewish, representing the remaining portion of the population.

Income

In 2022, the median household income in South Carolina was $58,234, with a per capita income of $32,823. The percentage of people in poverty was estimated to be 14.6%.

Education

Based on the 2022 Census, 88.8% of residents in South Carolina reported holding a high school diploma, and 29.8% held a higher education degree (a bachelor’s degree or higher).

According to the 2022 Nation's Report Card, overseen and administered by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average score of public school students in South Carolina was in the range of 234-254 out of 500. This range was not significantly different from the average score for public school students in the nation. The state is home to several prominent universities that contribute to research, innovation, and intellectual growth, including the University of South Carolina, Clemson University, and the College of Charleston.

Immigration

About two-thirds of South Carolina's residents have white European ancestry. Currently, the state's population is aging at a faster rate than the national average, partially due to the increasing in-migration of retirees and out-migration of younger residents.

Most residents were born in South Carolina, but metropolitan areas have a higher percentage of residents from other places. South Carolina has seen significant growth in its Hispanic population since the late 20th century, primarily driven by immigration from Mexico and other Latin American countries. Asian immigration has also increased.

Population Centers

Charleston is South Carolina's largest city, with over 153,000 people. The capital of Columbia follows in as the second largest with 139,000, and North Charleston comes in third with 118,000 people.

South Carolina Government

South Carolina transitioned from a Crown Colony to a representative democracy during the American Revolutionary War. The current state government of South Carolina operates under the 1895 constitution, which has been amended and rewritten since 1968. The government and politics of the state contains the three branches of government, the state constitution, law enforcement agencies, federal representation, state finances, and state taxes.

The governor, elected to a four-year term, has limited authority compared to the legislative branch. The General Assembly consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, with senators serving four-year terms and representatives serving two-year terms. Judicial authority rests with the Supreme Court, while the Court of Appeals and circuit courts handle appeals and lower-level cases, respectively. Local government authority was increased through the Local Government Act of 1975.

Political Trends

Historically, the state has been predominantly conservative, with political control shifting between the Democratic and Republican parties. In recent decades, South Carolina has leaned towards the Republican Party, voting for them in most federal government elections. However, conservative Democrats were successful in state-wide and local elections until the late 20th century. Currently, the Republican Party holds significant control over state executive offices, U.S. Senate seats, U.S. House representatives, and the South Carolina General Assembly.

South Carolina's political landscape shifted as the Republican Party gained strength in suburban areas and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 allowed increased Black participation in elections. Republicans now hold significant power in congressional representation, the governor's office, the General Assembly, and many metropolitan county councils. South Carolina state has been home to some of the most prominent politicians of the 20th century such as senator Strom Thurmond.

South Carolina Economy

The economy of South Carolina was ranked the 24th largest in the United States based on GDP in 2020. With its diverse range of attractions, including its coastal areas, historic sites, natural landscapes, and cultural events, tourism is the state's largest industry. Historically one of the wealthiest American colonies, South Carolina built its economy on rice, indigo, sugar, and tobacco. With the introduction of the cotton gin and widespread acceptance of slavery, cotton became the primary cash crop statewide.

Industrial Background

The aftermath of the Civil War caused economic hardship due to the heavy reliance on enslaved labor. However, the textile industry and other manufacturers contributed to the state's recovery well into the 20th century. Tourism emerged as a major industry and continues to be prominent, alongside manufacturing and real estate. In recent years, chemical and auto manufacture, insurance, real estate, rental, and leasing; as well as retail and tourism have been recognized as key sectors.

Despite the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, South Carolina experienced positive economic growth in 2021, with the state's GDP reaching $270 billion, representing a 5.9% increase from 2020. The labor market has also shown improvement, characterized by a growing workforce and a declining unemployment rate, currently standing at 3.6%.

Arts and Entertainment

South Carolina has a thriving arts and entertainment culture, which has been found to have a significant economic impact. According to a 2023 study conducted by Dr. Joseph C. Von Nessen, a Research Economist from the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, 5.5% of the state's total employment base was supported by the arts, generating $5.7 billion in wages and salaries. Furthermore, South Carolina’s arts-related cluster was found to generate $360.2 million in tax revenue annually.

The state has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant arts community that encompasses various artistic disciplines, including visual arts, music, theater, and literature. The state has made significant contributions to various genres, including jazz, blues, gospel, beach music, and bluegrass. The state has produced notable musicians such as Dizzy Gillespie, James Brown, and Chubby Checker, among others. Charleston, in particular, has a thriving jazz scene and is home to the Charleston Jazz Orchestra. Internationally renowned performing arts festivals such as the Spoleto Festival take place in Charleston, South Carolina annually, showcasing a wide range of artistic disciplines, including opera, theater, dance, music, and visual arts.

Space, Science and Technology

South Carolina has made significant contributions to space, science, and technology. With ongoing efforts and developments in these fields, the state continues to foster innovation and technological advancements. They have had a presence in the aerospace industry, with companies such as Boeing operating facilities in the state. The Boeing Company's Charleston facility is responsible for the assembly and delivery of Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Moreover,
South Carolina is home to the Aerospace Research and Development Center, which is part of the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR). This center focuses on aerospace research and development, including areas such as propulsion, materials, and aerodynamics.

In terms of science and technology, South Carolina is home to several research institutions and universities that contribute to various scientific fields. Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, and the Medical University of South Carolina are among the prominent educational institutions involved in scientific research and technological advancements.

Tourism

The $24 billion tourism industry is South Carolina’s largest sector. The state offers a variety of tourist destinations, and its rich history, including its connections to the American Revolution and the Civil War, is another draw for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore historic sites like Fort Sumter, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, Magnolia Plantation, and gardens such as Orangeburg. Coastal areas like Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Santee, Sullivan’s Island, and Charleston are particularly popular due to their stunning beaches, golf courses, historic sites, and vibrant entertainment options. These coastal regions draw visitors looking for relaxation, water sports, cultural experiences, and culinary delights.

Charleston, in particular, is renowned for its well-preserved historic district, which features charming cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene. The city consistently ranks highly in national and international travel publications and is a major draw for tourists seeking a blend of history, culture, and Southern charm.

The South Carolina Department of Parks is the state agency that manages the 47 state parks, including Congaree National Park and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.

Agriculture

South Carolina has a diverse agricultural sector that contributes to its economy and plays a significant role in providing food and other agricultural products. The state’s agricultural activities encompass a variety of crops, livestock, and aquaculture, and they’re known for producing commodities such as poultry, cattle, hogs, and dairy products. Additionally, South Carolina grows a range of crops, including cotton, soybeans, peaches, peanuts, tobacco, corn, and vegetables. The state's favorable climate and fertile soil make it suitable for agricultural production. Moreover, the industry is now complimented by a growing agribusiness sector that encompasses activities such as food processing, packaging, distribution, and agricultural research and development.

South Carolina has a strong seafood industry, with shrimping and oyster harvesting being important sectors along the coastal areas. The state's waters provide a rich source of seafood, and fishing is an integral part of the local economy and culinary heritage.

In recent times, agriculture and agribusiness-related tourism have gained popularity in South Carolina. Visitors can experience agritourism activities such as farm tours, pick-your-own operations, and farm-to-table dining experiences, which contribute to the state's overall tourism industry. The agricultural sector in South Carolina thus showcases the state's commitment to rural communities, sustainability, and the production of high-quality agricultural products.

Wealth and Poverty

South Carolina exhibits both wealth and poverty, with significant disparities across different regions and populations within the state. Affluent areas such as South Carolina, particularly along the coast and in major cities like Charleston and Hilton Head Island, have a higher concentration of wealth. These areas often attract affluent residents and tourists due to their scenic beauty, luxurious real estate, upscale amenities, and thriving industries. However, many rural areas in South Carolina face significant poverty challenges. These areas often lack access to quality education, healthcare, and job opportunities. Poverty rates can be higher in these regions due to factors such as limited economic diversification and a lack of infrastructure.

South Carolina is home to several renowned universities and research institutions, such as Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, and the Medical University of South Carolina. These institutions not only foster innovation but also attract educated professionals and contribute to the intellectual capital and economic growth of the state. Yet, at the same time, educational attainment and income disparities are prevalent throughout the state. Low educational attainment levels can contribute to lower income levels, limited job prospects, and a higher risk of poverty for some individuals and communities.

Similar to many states, South Carolina experiences racial and ethnic disparities in terms of wealth and poverty. Historically, systemic issues and racial inequalities have contributed to socioeconomic gaps between different racial and ethnic groups. Addressing poverty and promoting economic equality are ongoing challenges for the state. Efforts to improve education, job opportunities, healthcare access, and infrastructure in disadvantaged areas are crucial for reducing poverty and enhancing overall prosperity in South Carolina.

South Carolina Interesting Facts

Known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and southern charm, South Carolina is a state full of fascinating stories and intriguing facts. From being the eighth state to join the Union to being home to the first battle of the Civil War, there's so much more to this state than meets the eye. So buckle up as we delve into some interesting facts about South Carolina that will surely pique your curiosity and, perhaps, inspire your next vacation.

The World’s Golf Capital

South Carolina's love for golf is deeply rooted, with historic ties dating back to the first game of golf played in the United States in Charleston. In the present day, although several other locations in the U.S. vie for the title, with over 350 courses and miles of picturesque coastline, South Carolina is considered the world’s premier location for golf!

it's no surprise that the state boasts three of the top 10 "golf islands" in the world, as recognized by Links magazine. Hilton Head Island, ranked seventh, features renowned courses like Harbour Town Golf Links. Kiawah Island, at number eight, is home to The Ocean Course, considered one of the most challenging courses globally. Pawleys Island, ranked tenth, may be small but offers exceptional quality with courses like Caledonia Golf & Fish Club.

The state's prominence in the golfing world is further exemplified by hosting prestigious events like the 2021 PGA Championship at Kiawah Island Golf Resort.

Moreover, stretching approximately 90 miles from Pawley's Plantation, South Carolina, well into North Carolina, Myrtle Beach is known as the "Grand Strand" of Golf courses and is famous worldwide.

Home to One of the Largest Live Oak Trees

Estimated to be between 300 and 500 years old, the Angel Oak Park is recognized as the largest Live Oak Tree east of the Mississippi. Located on Johns Island, this natural wonder is known as the “Lowcountry Treasure” and attracts over 40,000 visitors annually. With a historical narrative dating back to 1717, the Angel Oak was discovered on the land granted to a man named Abraham Waight. According to folklore, the tree is believed to derive its name from the appearance of enslaved people as angels

The Birthplace of Sweet Tea

Sweet tea holds a significant place in South Carolina's culture as it originated in the state and is deeply ingrained in its traditions! Summerville, in particular, takes pride in being recognized as the official "Birthplace of Sweet Tea." Whether sipped from elegant crystal glasses or humble mason jars, this refreshing beverage is a beloved part of the Palmetto State.

Previously, it was believed that sweet tea was invented in St. Louis at the World's Fair in 1904. However, an intriguing discovery changed that narrative. A list of items purchased for a reunion in Summerville in 1890 revealed the inclusion of bread, beans, beef, a whopping 600 pounds of sugar, and a staggering 880 gallons of iced tea. This finding provided telltale evidence of sweet tea's existence in South Carolina well before the World's Fair, solidifying its historical significance in the state.

South Carolina History

South Carolina's history is a vibrant tapestry of pivotal events and dynamic characters, stretching from the early Native American settlements to the modern era. This historical journey encompasses Colonial times, Revolutionary and Civil War periods, with significant cultural, economic, and political developments. As we delve into South Carolina's past, we'll discover the shaping forces that have molded this state into what it is today.

Pre-Colonial History

Humans have been present in South Carolina for thousands of years, with origins from Asia, Africa, and Europe. During the Ice Age, Paleo-Indians hunted extinct animals and smaller game. The Early Archaic period introduced new hunting strategies and weaponry. In the Middle Archaic period, population growth led to dispersal and restricted mobility. The Late Archaic period saw innovations like tribal societies, pottery, and settlements along rivers and the coast. The Woodland period brought pottery-making and horticultural activities. The Mississippian culture featured temple mound construction and complex societies. European colonization had devastating effects on native societies. Some aspects of Native American culture survive today, including grits, tribal names, and craft practices. Thirteen tribal groups are represented on a committee for Native American affairs.

Colonial History

In the Colonial era, the region that we recognize as South Carolina was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Catawba, Chickasaw, Creek (Muskogean), Congaree, Pee Dee, Shawnee, Waccamaw, and Yamasee, among others.

South Carolina was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, but European settlers disrupted and displaced them. English settlers arrived in the 17th century, and South Carolina became the eighth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. The state's economy relied on agriculture, with enslaved Africans making up a significant portion of the population. South Carolina played a major role in the slave trade. During the American Revolution, the state saw numerous battles, including victories and defeats. South Carolina ratified the U.S. Constitution in 1788 and became one of the original states.

Pre-Civil War History

During the Antebellum period, South Carolina was shaped by influential plantation owners who held a majority within the legislative body and fought to uphold slavery. The state passed laws to prevent emancipation and restrict the rights of free Black individuals. The invention of the cotton gin in 1793 led to a rise in wealth through cotton cultivation, increasing the demand for enslaved labor. The state played a role in the Nullification Crisis, led by John C. Calhoun, where tensions over state sovereignty and federal authority escalated. South Carolina seceded from the Union in 1860, leading to the start of the Civil War.

In the early hours of April 12th, 1861, the South Carolina militia opened fire at Fort Sumter near Charleston, South Carolina, solidifying the State’s ominous role in the Civil War in American history. Although the attack would continue on to the 13th of April, the bloodshed was son were near the worst which was to come.

The state supplied provisions and soldiers to the Confederacy and experienced devastation during the war, including the burning of Columbia by General William Sherman's forces in 1865. The state house was rebuilt in 1903 due to post-war financial constraints.

Post-Civil War History

After the Civil War, South Carolina suffered severe economic devastation. During the Reconstruction Era (1865-1877), the state experienced military control, disenfranchisement of various groups, and corruption.

The Bourbon era followed, marked by Democratic leadership by the established elite. The economy continued to struggle, with low cotton prices and the ruin of the plantation system. Benjamin R. Tillman, an advocate for white farmers, assumed the governorship in the 1890s, leading to agrarian reform and the disenfranchisement of African Americans. The disenfranchisement of African Americans persisted into the 20th century, with limited representation and unequal treatment. Industrialization occurred, and white sharecroppers and mill workers gained political influence.

Fort Jackson was established in 1917, and the state faced economic challenges in the aftermath of World War I and during the Great Depression. South Carolina benefited from New Deal relief programs in the 1930s.

Modern History

In the 20th century, African Americans in South Carolina faced disenfranchisement, exclusion from juries, underfunded segregated schools, and a biased law enforcement system. They regained their political rights during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. Conservatives regained control of the legislature, and the state underwent rapid industrialization. Despite the rise of cotton mill workers as a new white voting group, beneficial policies were not implemented.

Progressive reforms began before World War I and Fort Jackson was established in response to the war. After World War I, the state faced economic challenges due to collapsing cotton prices and the boll weevil. It benefited from New Deal programs in the 1930s. From 1950 to 1980, South Carolina experienced economic, demographic, and political transformations. Nonagricultural employment and income per capita increased, the urban population grew, and racial segregation ended. Challenges in the 21st century include sustainable economic growth, environmental protection, and access to healthcare and education, particularly in rural areas. Urban sprawl is also a concern.

People Also Ask...

If you are interested in more information about the state of South Carolina, then keep reading — we have compiled answers to the most common FAQs below. Plus, test your knowledge of the conflict that reshaped the nation with our America’s Civil War Quiz!

What Is South Carolina Known For?

South Carolina is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks like Fort Sumter, and its rich cultural heritage, including Gullah Geechee traditions.

Is South Carolina a Nice State To Live In?

Yes! South Carolina offers lush forests, mild winters, and a pleasant climate that makes it an ideal place to live. The state also boasts some of the country's lowest costs of living and taxes, making it attractive to both young professionals and retirees.

Why Is South Carolina So Popular?

South Carolina is popular for its unique blend of culture and history, with attractions like Charleston’s cobblestone streets and some of the best beaches in the country. The state also offers an abundance of outdoor activities, from fishing and boating to camping and hiking, making it a great destination for all kinds of travelers.