South Carolina

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South Carolina - The Palmetto State

Charleston, SC

South Carolina, located in the southeastern United States, is a state known for its stunning coastal beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage. Bordered by North Carolina to the north and Georgia to the southwest, it also has an Atlantic Ocean shoreline that stretches for over 180 miles, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Geography and Climate

The state features diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches and barrier islands along the coast to rolling hills and pine forests inland. Its humid subtropical climate brings hot summers and mild winters, providing the perfect environment for agriculture and outdoor activities year-round.

History and Culture

South Carolina holds a special place in American history. It was one of the original 13 colonies and played a major role in both the American Revolution and the Civil War. Visitors can explore historic sites in Charleston, famous plantations, and preserved battlefields. The state also celebrates a vibrant cultural scene with Gullah traditions, Southern cuisine, and music festivals.

Economy and Attractions

Today, South Carolina’s economy is driven by manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture, with crops like peaches and tobacco being significant. Popular attractions include Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and Congaree National Park, making it an inviting destination for travelers.

Florida Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts

Fact	Detail	Interesting Facts
Region	Southeast (South Atlantic)	South Carolina was the first state to secede from the Union in December 1860, sparking the Civil War. The first shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor in April 1861. South Carolina is known as the "Palmetto State" because of the palmetto tree used in Revolutionary War defenses. Charleston is famous for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and pastel-colored homes. Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Southeast, known for its beaches and golf courses. The state produces more peaches than Georgia, earning the nickname “Peach State’s rival.” South Carolina’s coastline includes over 2,800 miles of tidal shoreline, dotted with islands and marshes. The Gullah culture, found along the Lowcountry, preserves African traditions in language, cuisine, and crafts. South Carolina was originally part of the Province of Carolina, which split into North and South Carolina in 1712. Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, created in the 1940s, are among the largest man-made lakes in the U.S.
Population	5.4 million (approx.)
Area	32,020 sq mi
Statehood	May 23, 1788 (8th state)
Capital City	Columbia
Largest City	Charleston
Abbreviation	SC
Nickname	The Palmetto State
Geography	Coastal plains, sandy beaches, swamps, rolling hills, Blue Ridge Mountains in the northwest
Bordering States	North Carolina, Georgia; Atlantic Ocean to the east
Economy	Manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, agriculture (cotton, tobacco, soybeans), tourism
State Tree	Sabal Palmetto (Cabbage Palmetto)
State Bird	Carolina Wren


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

	History of South Carolina South Carolina was one of the original 13 colonies, founded in 1670 by English settlers, and it became a major center for rice and indigo plantations powered by enslaved African labor. The state played a key role in American history, seceding from the Union in 1860 as the first state to start the Civil War.

	Famous People from South Carolina South Carolina has produced many influential figures, including Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, and Mary McLeod Bethune, a pioneering educator and civil rights leader who founded a school for African American girls. These individuals reflect the state’s lasting impact on American politics, education, and social progress.

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

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