Pennsylvania

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Pennsylvania - The Keystone State

Pittsburgh Skyline

Welcome to Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, one of the original thirteen colonies, holds a prominent place in American history. Known as the Keystone State, it earned this nickname because of its central location among the colonies and its key role in the nation’s founding. The state was established in 1681 by William Penn as a haven for religious freedom, attracting diverse groups such as Quakers, Germans, and Scots-Irish settlers.

Geography and Landscape

Pennsylvania offers a varied landscape that includes fertile farmland, rolling hills, and the Appalachian Mountains. The state features major rivers like the Delaware and the Susquehanna, which have historically supported trade and transportation. Pennsylvania’s geography contributed to its early economic success, providing resources such as coal and timber.

Economy and Culture

From its early days as a center for agriculture and iron production, Pennsylvania grew into an industrial powerhouse during the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, its economy is diverse, with strong sectors in manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and education. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are cultural hubs, known for their art, sports, and historic sites.

Historical Significance

Pennsylvania is home to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Gettysburg, the site of a major Civil War battle, further underscores its historical importance.

Pennsylvania Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts

Fact	Detail	Interesting Facts
Region	Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)	Pennsylvania is called the “Keystone State” because of its central role in the founding of the United States. Philadelphia hosted the signing of both the Declaration of Independence (1776) and the U.S. Constitution (1787). The Liberty Bell, a symbol of American freedom, is housed in Philadelphia. Pennsylvania is home to the first successful commercial oil well, drilled in 1859 in Titusville. Hershey, Pennsylvania is known as the “Chocolate Capital of the World.” The first daily newspaper in the U.S., The Pennsylvania Packet and Daily Advertiser, was published in 1784. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania was the site of a major Civil War battle and President Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address. Pennsylvania has more covered bridges than almost any other state in the country. Pittsburgh was once the world’s steel capital, earning it the nickname “Steel City.” Pennsylvania produces more mushrooms than any other U.S. state, especially in Chester County.
Population	~13 million (2024 est.)
Area	46,055 sq mi (119,283 km²)
Statehood	December 12, 1787 (2nd state)
Capital City	Harrisburg
Largest City	Philadelphia
Abbreviation	PA
Nickname	The Keystone State
Geography	Appalachian Mountains, Delaware River, rolling hills, fertile valleys
Bordering States	New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio
Economy	Diverse: manufacturing, finance, agriculture, natural gas (Marcellus Shale)
State Tree	Eastern Hemlock
State Bird	Ruffed Grouse


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

	History of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania was founded in 1681 by William Penn as a haven for religious freedom and quickly became a center for trade and government in the colonies. It played a crucial role in American history as the site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the drafting of the U.S. Constitution in Philadelphia.

	Famous People from Pennsylvania Benjamin Franklin, a Founding Father from Pennsylvania, was an inventor, writer, and diplomat who helped shape the United States. Roberto Clemente, a legendary Pittsburgh Pirates baseball player, became a hero both on and off the field for his athletic skill and humanitarian efforts.

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

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