Florida is the southernmost state in the continental United States and is bordered by Alabama and Georgia to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Gulf of Mexico to the west. The state has a wide variety of geographical features that make it unique. Located in the southeastern corner of North America, Florida is mostly composed of low-lying marshlands, swamplands, and coastal estuaries. The terrain also includes numerous small lakes and rivers, as well as some large inland lakes such as Lake Okeechobee. In addition to its wetlands, Florida also has a large number of sandy beaches and coral reefs. The highest point in Florida is Britton Hill at 345 feet above sea level. Much of Florida’s coastline consists of barrier islands that form along its eastern shores due to strong ocean currents and tides from both the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. These islands are home to some of Florida’s most popular tourist destinations such as Daytona Beach, Key West, Sanibel Island, and Fort Lauderdale. Further inland lies much of Florida’s vast wetlands which include Everglades National Park – one of America’s largest national parks – as well as Big Cypress National Preserve and Dry Tortugas National Park. Beyond these areas lie miles upon miles of grassy plains used for cattle ranching or for growing crops such as corn or soybeans. Check localbusinessexplorer for climate in Miami, Florida.
History
Florida’s history is a long and fascinating one. Evidence of human habitation in what is now Florida dates back to at least 14,000 BC, during the Pleistocene period. During this time, Florida was much cooler and drier than it is today, with much of the peninsula covered in grassland and savanna. The first known human inhabitants were hunter-gatherers who lived off the land’s abundant wildlife and plants. Later, Native American tribes such as the Calusa, Apalachee, Timucua, Tequesta and Seminole settled in various parts of the state. The first European contact with Florida came in 1513 when Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León arrived on its shores. He claimed the region for Spain and named it La Florida (“Land of Flowers”). Over the next few centuries Florida changed hands many times as Spain, Britain and eventually the United States fought over control of it. In 1821 Spain ceded all its rights to East and West Florida to the United States government; this marked the beginning of American rule over what would become one of its most populous states.
During this time period, settlers from other parts of America began arriving in droves seeking opportunity and a new life. The fertile land was perfect for agriculture and soon cotton plantations began popping up all over northern Florida; citrus groves were established in central regions; while southern areas became centers for tourism as people from all over flocked to enjoy its warm climate and stunning beaches. In 1845 Florida officially became part of the United States when it was admitted as a state during President James K Polk’s administration; it has remained a part of America ever since. Today Florida is home to millions who enjoy its year-round sunshine, diverse wildlife reserves, world-class theme parks, vibrant cities full of culture and history – all evidence that this Land Of Flowers has come a long way since Ponce de León first set foot on its shores nearly five hundred years ago!
Culture
Florida has a diverse and vibrant culture that is a reflection of its people, environment, and history. The people of Florida are largely influenced by their Latin American roots as well as their African-American heritage. This is reflected in the music, art, food, and language heard throughout the state. Music genres such as Reggae, Calypso, Salsa, Merengue and Zouk are popular in Florida due to its Caribbean influence. In addition to the Latin American influence on music, there are also many other musical genres popular in Florida such as Jazz, Blues and Country music.
The food of Florida is also heavily influenced by its Latin American roots as well as its African-American heritage. Floridian cuisine typically consists of dishes with rice and beans as the main ingredients along with other vegetables and spices to create flavorful dishes such as Arroz con Pollo or Ropa Vieja. Floridians also enjoy seafood dishes like grouper sandwiches or stone crab claws which can be found at many local restaurants throughout the state.
The arts scene in Florida is just as vibrant with many venues offering live performances from theater companies to symphonies to jazz bands. Art galleries featuring works from local artists can be found all around the state showcasing a variety of styles ranging from traditional to contemporary art pieces. There are also numerous festivals held throughout the year celebrating various cultural aspects from music festivals like Jazz Fest or Sun Fest to art shows like Art Basel Miami Beach or Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival which attract thousands of visitors each year.
State Flag
The state flag of Florida is a white flag with a red saltire, which is a St. Andrew’s cross. It has been in use since the late 1800s, when it was adopted by the state legislature as the official state flag. The design of the flag was inspired by the Confederate battle flag and features a red saltire on a white background, with the state seal in the center. The seal features an image of a Seminole woman with an alligator and palm tree in front of her, surrounded by rays of sunlight. The words “In God We Trust” are featured at the top of the seal, while “Florida” appears at its base. At each corner of the seal is an image of one of Florida’s four major industries: agriculture, industry, tourism and fishing. The colors used on the flag represent purity (white) and courage (red).
