Introduction
Philadelphia, city (2020 pop.
1,603,797), coextensive with Philadelphia co., SE Pa., on the Delaware River
c.100 mi (160 km) upstream at the influx of the Schuylkill River; chartered
1701. It is the fifth largest city in the United States and has been a
leading commercial and cultural center since the 18th cent. An important
trading and manufacturing hub even before the Revolution, it maintains a
diversified industrial base. Chemicals; metal, paper, and plastic products;
foods; textiles; apparel; machinery; electrical and electronic products;
transportation equipment; scientific instruments; and furniture are among
its manufactures. The metropolitan area's newer industries include
health-care and biotechnology firms. Its printing and publishing industry is
important, and there are major oil refineries. Philadelphia is also a
banking center.
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