West Virginia

West Virginia is a U.S. state located in the Appalachian Region of the Southern United States. It is bordered by Virginia to the southeast, Kentucky to the southwest, Ohio to the northwest, Pennsylvania to the north, and Maryland to the northeast. West Virginia is the 41st largest state by area and ranks 38th in population.

History

West Virginia was admitted to the Union on June 20, 1863, during the American Civil War. It was the only state to form by seceding from a Confederate state and was one of two states admitted to the Union during the Civil War (the other being Nevada).

Geography

West Virginia is located entirely within the Appalachian Region, and the state is almost entirely mountainous, giving reason to the nickname The Mountain State and the state motto, "Mountaineers Are Always Free". The Appalachian Mountains are the oldest on the continent.

Economy

The economy of West Virginia is diverse, with a heavy focus on extractive industries like logging and coal mining. The state is also a leader in producing natural gas, oil, and hardwood lumber.

Culture

West Virginia's culture is a blend of southern and Appalachian folk traditions. The state's music, art, and folklore are heavily influenced by its Appalachian heritage. The West Virginia State Fair and the Appalachian String Band Music Festival are popular cultural events.

Education

West Virginia's public education system includes both primary and secondary schools, overseen by the West Virginia Department of Education. The state also has several institutions of higher education, including West Virginia University and Marshall University.

Government and Politics

West Virginia's state government is divided into three branches: the executive, the legislative, and the judicial. The state has a reputation for leaning conservative in U.S. politics, although it has a history of competitive statewide elections.

See Also

• List of cities in West Virginia
• List of counties in West Virginia
• West Virginia in the American Civil War

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