New Hampshire

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New Hampshire - The Granite State

New Hampshire

Introduction to New Hampshire

New Hampshire, often called the “Granite State,” is a small but historically important state in New England. It was one of the original thirteen colonies and the first to establish its own constitution independent of British rule. With its rugged mountains, scenic lakes, and Atlantic coastline, New Hampshire offers diverse landscapes that attract visitors year-round.

Geography and Natural Beauty

The state is famous for the White Mountains, including Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking, skiing, and camping in its many parks and wilderness areas. Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in the state, is a popular destination for boating and fishing.

Economy and Traditions

New Hampshire’s economy blends manufacturing, tourism, and technology. The state also values local traditions such as maple syrup production and its long history of small-town fairs. It is known for its motto, “Live Free or Die,” reflecting its spirit of independence and self-reliance.

Culture and Legacy

Culturally, New Hampshire has played an important role in American politics as it hosts the first presidential primary every election cycle. The state continues to balance its historic roots with modern growth, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, independence, and civic engagement.

Connecticut Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts

Fact	Detail	Interesting Facts
Region	Northeast (New England)	New Hampshire was the first state to establish its own constitution, independent of Britain, in January 1776. The state motto is “Live Free or Die,” coined by Revolutionary War hero General John Stark. It has the shortest ocean coastline of any U.S. state, just 18 miles long. New Hampshire holds the first presidential primary in the nation, making it a key state in U.S. elections. The White Mountains include Mount Washington, famous for having some of the world’s strongest wind gusts (231 mph recorded in 1934). The state has no general sales tax or income tax on wages. New Hampshire’s Old Man of the Mountain, a rock formation that collapsed in 2003, was once its most famous symbol. The state is known for fall foliage tourism, drawing visitors from around the world. New Hampshire was the 9th state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, making it the decisive vote that put the Constitution into effect. It is one of only a few states where wearing a seatbelt is not required for adults over 18.
Population	~1.4 million (2025 est.)
Area	9,349 sq mi (24,214 km²)
Statehood	June 21, 1788 (9th state)
Capital City	Concord
Largest City	Manchester
Abbreviation	NH
Nickname	"The Granite State"
Geography	Mountainous with forests, lakes, and a short Atlantic Ocean coastline (18 miles)
Bordering States	Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont; also borders Canada
Economy	Tourism, manufacturing, high tech, forestry, agriculture, and services
State Tree	White Birch
State Bird	Purple Finch


Our Content
	Interactive and Printable New Hampshire Maps and Map Activities This section features numerous interactive and printable New Hampshire maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own New Hampshire map.

	History of New Hampshire New Hampshire was one of the original 13 colonies and became the first to establish its own constitution independent of Britain in January 1776. It played a key role in the American Revolution and later was the ninth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, making it official.

	Famous People from New Hampshire New Hampshire is home to many famous figures, including Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States. Another well-known leader is Daniel Webster, a powerful orator and statesman who served as a U.S. senator and Secretary of State.

	New Hampshire Literacy and Comprehension Exercises This section offers a variety of literacy and reading comprehension activities, including engaging passages with question sets, cloze reading exercises, and lessons on text elements and structure. These resources are generally suitable for students in grades 4–8.

	Fun New Hampshire Printables and Coloring Activities This section features fun and educational New Hampshire-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to New Hampshire' sign, and much more!

	Fun New Hampshire and United States Online Games This section provides some really exciting online games such as New Hampshire or Not New Hampshire, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.