Ohio - The Buckeye State

Cincinnati Skyline

Ohio

 

Ohio, known as the “Buckeye State,” sits at the crossroads of the Midwest and the Northeast, blending industrial strength with natural beauty. It became the 17th U.S. state in 1803 and has since played a central role in the nation’s history—especially during the Civil War, when it was a major Union stronghold. Ohio’s location along Lake Erie and several major rivers helped it develop into a hub for manufacturing and transportation.

The state is home to several major cities, including Columbus (the capital), Cleveland, and Cincinnati, each with its own cultural identity and historical significance. Ohio has also made a mark in politics, producing eight U.S. presidents—earning it the nickname “the Mother of Presidents.”

Ohio offers a diverse landscape, from the rolling Appalachian foothills in the south to flat farmlands and urban skylines in the north. It’s also known for its love of sports, from college football to the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Cavaliers. Whether you're drawn to historic towns, amusement parks like Cedar Point, or world-class museums, Ohio has something to offer. With its mix of innovation, tradition, and Midwestern charm, Ohio remains a vital and vibrant part of the United States.

Ohio Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts
Fact Detail Interesting Facts
Region Midwest
    1. Ohio is the birthplace of eight U.S. presidents, earning it the nickname “Mother of Presidents.”
    2. The Wright brothers, pioneers of aviation, grew up in Dayton, Ohio.
    3. Ohio’s state flag is the only non-rectangular U.S. state flag — it's a swallowtail design.
    4. Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, was from Wapakoneta, Ohio.
    5. The first professional baseball team, the Cincinnati Red Stockings, was established in Ohio in 1869.
    6. Ohio is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, located in Cleveland.
    7. The state’s nickname comes from the buckeye tree, whose nuts resemble the eye of a deer.
    8. Cedar Point, one of the world’s top amusement parks, is located in Sandusky, Ohio.
    9. Ohio has a large Amish population, particularly in Holmes and surrounding counties.
    10. It was a key battleground during the Underground Railroad, with many safe houses aiding enslaved people to freedom.
Population 11.8 million (2023 est.)
Area 44,825 sq mi
Statehood March 1, 1803 (17th state)
Capital City Columbus
Largest City Columbus
Abbreviation OH
Nickname The Buckeye State
Geography Forests, farmland, rivers, Lake Erie coast, Appalachian foothills
Bordering States Michigan, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana
Economy Manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, logistics, aerospace
State Tree Ohio Buckeye
State Bird Cardinal

 

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Ohio Map

Interactive and Printable Ohio Maps and Map Activities

This section features numerous interactive and printable Ohio maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own Ohio map.

French and Indian War

History of Ohio

Ohio became a state in 1803 and played a key role in westward expansion and the Underground Railroad. It was an important center for industry and transportation during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Ulysses S. Grant

Famous People from Ohio

Ohio is known as the "Mother of Presidents" because eight U.S. presidents were born there, including Ulysses S. Grant and William McKinley. This legacy reflects the state's historical influence in national politics during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

 
Comprehension

Ohio 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.
Ohio Symbols

Fun Ohio Printables and Coloring Activities

This section features fun and educational Ohio-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to Ohio' sign, and much more!
Collage America

Ohio and United States Online Games

This section provides some really exciting online games such as Ohio or Not Ohio, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.