The state of Georgia, named after the British King George II, is one of the most interesting states in the USA. The sights that beckon tourists here are quite diverse. Here you can enjoy the mountain scenery or observe the inhabitants of the swamps, stroll through the romantic old neighborhoods of Savannah or get into the mood of modern architecture of Atlanta. Georgia has activities for the whole family and for every taste. From the world’s largest aquarium and the beaches of Jekyll Island, to cute antebellum homes and historic sites that breathe the spirit of the ages, the state has plenty to offer.
The state’s lands have been inhabited by people for thousands of years. Numerous Native American tribes lived here before the arrival of Europeans. Chief among them were the Cherokee and the Creeks. The Cherokee lived in the northern part of Georgia, while the Creeks inhabited the southern part of the state. Both tribes spoke different languages and were considered part of the Five Civilized Tribes.
In 1540, the first Europeans arrived in Georgia. The Spaniards, led by Hernando de Soto, were gold hunters. With them came disease and trouble for the Indians. Later, missionary settlements appeared along the coast. But eventually the priests had to leave as they were easy prey for pirates.
In 1733, the first British colony was established in Georgia. 116 colonists came to the coast and established a settlement that later became the city of Savannah. When the other 13 British colonies rebelled against the king’s high taxes, Georgia joined them and signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
After the war, the region joined the newly formed republic and became the 4th state of the United States. At this time, there was an increased demand for cotton in the world, and Georgia was a great place to grow it. By the early 19th century, most of the state’s land was occupied by cotton plantations. Slavery flourished here – until 1860, Georgia was home to nearly 500,000 slaves.
In 1861, after the beginning of the Civil War, Georgia went over to the side of the Confederacy. Several major battles were fought in the region, and as a result, it took many years to rebuild.
Today Georgia is a dynamically developing American state with a population of about 10 million people.