Alabama

=Alabama=

Map obtained from [|http://www.nationatlas.gov] =About Alabama=

The etymology of the word or name, Alabama, has evoked much discussion. It was the name of an Indian tribe (Alabama, Albama, Alebamon, Alibama, Alibamou, Alibamon, Alabamu, and Allibamou). Alabama possibly means "Here We Rest", but it could also mean "thicket clearers", Alabama being a compound of //Alba// meaning "a thick or mass vegetation," and //amo// meaning "to clear, to collect, to gather up." Alabama became the 22nd state in 1819. From the early 19th century, Alabama's economy was dominated by cotton. However, although it is still an important crop, such as corn, peanuts, soybeans have taken over much of the former cotton lands. Particularly in the second half of the 20th century, a comparatively rapid industrialization set in. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) program of hydroelectric power production, begun in the 1930s, fostered the growth of giant fertilizer, munitions, and aluminum industries. Alabama, known as "Heart of Dixie" occupies a central place in the history of the South. Montgomery, the Alabama capital, served as the first Confederate Capital during the Civil War. Tourists can visit Alabama's historic homes and gardens, reminiscent of the Old South. Also popular are the resorts and beaches on Dauphin Island, the Gulf Shore and Mobile Bay.

Source: [|http://usa.usembassy.de/.htm]

=Symbols of Alabama=



State Flag
== Crimson St. Andrew's cross on a white field, patterned after the Confederate Battle Flag, and adopted in 1895. The bars forming the cross must not be less than six inches broad and must extend diagonally across the flag from side to side. ==

Source: [|http://www.50states.com/flag/ .htm]



State seal

=State Facts=

**State Song:** Alabama
Source: [] =Population and Cities=

Largest City: Birmingham Second Largest City: Montgomery Persons per square mile: 88 Population: 4,661,900

Source:[|http://www.census.gov/schools/facts/]Created by Emilee Bean