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California

State Motto

Eureka (I have found it)

State Motto of California

California State Information

California is the 31st State in the Union

California, located on the west coast of the United States, is a diverse and dynamic state known for its stunning natural landscapes, thriving economy, and vibrant culture. With a population exceeding 39 million people, it's the most populous state in the country. California is renowned for its iconic cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, which are centers of entertainment, technology, and innovation. The state boasts an incredibly diverse geography, encompassing rugged coastlines, fertile valleys, and majestic mountain ranges, including the Sierra Nevada. It's also home to famous national parks like Yosemite and Joshua Tree. California plays a crucial role in the nation's economy, driven by industries such as technology, entertainment, agriculture, and tourism. Furthermore, its progressive policies often set trends in areas like environmental conservation and social justice. Despite its challenges, California remains a symbol of opportunity and a cultural powerhouse that continues to shape the American experience.

What's in a name?

Named after a mythical island called 'California' in a Spanish novel.

State Nickname of California

California Geography

Map of the State of California

Download maps of California

Area: 163,695 sq mi (423,970 kmĀ²), 3rd
Highest Point: Mount Whitney; 14,505 ft (1,348 m), 2nd
Lowest Point: Death Valley; -282 ft (-26 m)
Bordering States: Arizona, Nevada, Oregon
Area Codes: Area Codes of California
Zip Codes: Zip Codes of California

California boasts diverse geography that encompasses a wide range of natural landscapes. It is renowned for its extensive Pacific coastline, stretching over 800 miles, featuring stunning beaches and rugged cliffs. Inland, California offers varying terrain, from the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the east with peaks like Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States, to fertile valleys like the Central Valley, known for its agricultural production. The state is also characterized by a diverse climate, from the Mediterranean climate of Southern California to the alpine climate of the mountains. California's geography includes deserts like the Mojave Desert, lush forests in the northern regions, and iconic landmarks such as Yosemite National Park, the Redwood and Sequoia forests, and Death Valley, the hottest and driest national park in the country. This geographic diversity contributes to California's reputation as a land of natural beauty and ecological significance.

California Economy

California boasts the largest and most diverse economy of any U.S. state, often considered the world's fifth-largest economy if treated as a separate nation. With a gross domestic product (GDP) surpassing $3 trillion, California's economy is driven by a multitude of industries, including technology and innovation centered in Silicon Valley, entertainment in Hollywood, agriculture in the Central Valley, and international trade through major ports like Los Angeles. It's also home to a thriving tourism sector, aerospace manufacturing, and a burgeoning renewable energy industry. The state's economic strength is underpinned by a highly skilled workforce, abundant natural resources, and a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation that continues to foster economic growth and development.

Agriculture

Top 3 crops / livestock for California

  • Almonds
  • Grapes
  • Milk

Industry

Top 3 industries for California

  • Technology
  • Entertainment
  • Agriculture

California State Symbols

State Flag

State Flag of California

State Seal

State Seal of California

State Quarter

State Quarter of California

State Flower

State Flower of CaliforniaCalifornia Poppy

State Fish

State Fish of CaliforniaGolden Trout
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Ted Grajeda

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