Montgomery

Montgomery is the capital city of the U.S. state of Alabama and the county seat of Montgomery County. Named for Richard Montgomery, it stands beside the Alabama River, on the coastal Plain of the Gulf of Mexico. In the 2010 Census, Montgomery's population was 205,764. It is the second most populous city in Alabama, after Birmingham, and is the 118th most populous in the United States. The Montgomery Metropolitan Statistical Area's population in 2010 was estimated at 374,536; it is the fourth largest in the state and 136th among United States metropolitan areas.

History

Montgomery was incorporated in 1819 as a merger of two towns situated along the Alabama River. It became the state capital in 1846, representing the shift of power to the south-central area of Alabama with the growth of cotton as a commodity crop of the Black Belt and the rise of Mobile as a mercantile port on the Gulf Coast.

Geography

Montgomery occupies a rich agricultural region; crops include corn, soybeans, and peaches. Poultry, cattle, and dairy products also contribute to the economy.

Economy

Montgomery's economy is driven by government, healthcare, manufacturing, retail trade, and education. The city is home to several notable companies and organizations, including the Alabama State University, Troy University (Montgomery campus), and Auburn University at Montgomery.

Culture

Montgomery has a vibrant arts scene with the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, and the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre.

Education

Montgomery has a mix of public and private schools, colleges, and universities. It is home to Alabama State University, Troy University (Montgomery campus), and Auburn University at Montgomery.

Transportation

Montgomery has a major regional airport, Montgomery Regional Airport, and an extensive network of freeways, bus routes, and bike lanes.

Notable people

Many notable people have lived in or come from Montgomery, including singer Nat King Cole, civil rights activist Rosa Parks, and author F. Scott Fitzgerald.

See also

• List of capitals in the United States
• Alabama

External links

• Official website

Also see

► Healthcare providers in Alabama

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