California
California became a U.S. territory in 1847 and on September 9, 1850 as the 31st state. California is located on the West Coast of the United States, bordered by Oregon to the north, Nevada to the northeast, Arizona to the southeast, the Mexican state of Baja California to the south, and the Pacific to the west.
Prior to the Gold Rush, migration to California was slow until 1848 when gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill. This marked the start of the California Gold Rush and influx of settlers in large numbers. The state of California has since been referred to as the ‘Golden’ state. In 1964, California surpassed New York to become the most populous state in the United States of America.
The largest cities in California are Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, and San Francisco. As of 2005 was the 5th largest economy in the world. This rise is widely attributed to its diverse population, in 2004 the Los Angeles Unified School District reported 92 languages used by the student population.
Leading industries include agriculture, manufacturing, biotechnology, aerospace-defense, film, music and tourism. Principal natural resources include timber, petroleum, cement, and natural gas. California is home to the Lassen Peak which is one of two active U.S. volcanoes outside of Alaska and Hawaii.
Capital
Sacramento.
Population as of 2009
36,961,664 Ranked number 1 in the U.S.
Seats in the House of Representatives
53
Electoral College
55
Nick name
Golden State
Flower
Golden Poppy
Bird
California Valley Quail
Animal
Grizzly Bear
