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Pennsylvania became the 2^nd state on Dec 12 1787. Pennsylvania is also known as the Keystone state, an architectural reference to the stone that holds an arch structure in place.

Origin of state's name: The state of Pennsylvania is named after the states founder father, William Penn.

Population: The population of Pennsylvania is over 12.2 million people based on the last census in 2000.

Driving

Driver's license information, applications, testing requirements, Driver's manuals and testing locations can all be found on the Pennsylvania's department of Transportation website.

http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/

Economy: Pennsylvania has some great agricultural land and dairy and poultry farming thrive in the state. Food processing and tourism also add to the states economy.

State Bird: The state bird is the Ruffed Grouse or Tetrao Umbellus which is often hunted for its flesh. The bird is caught either by shooting it or by traps on the ground. The ruffed Grouse prefers hiding out in the laurels.

State Flower: The state flower is the Mountain Laurel or Kalmia Latifolia which has a beautiful pink flower in late spring and early summer.

State Song: The state song is "Pennsylvania" by E. Khoury and R. Bonner which sings the praises of this beautiful state.

State Motto: The state motto is "Virtue, Liberty and Independence"

Pennsylvania – Interesting Facts

• Hershey, Pennsylvania is home to the Hershey's chocolate company and is often called the Chocolate Capital of the United States.
• The first US flag was made in Philadelphia by a lady called Betsy Ross
• Philadelphia is well known for foods named after the city such as Philadelphia cream cheese and Philly cheese steak sandwich.
• The Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia in 1776.
• Philadelphia is home to the Liberty Bell.
• Pittsburgh is famous as a steel manufacturing city.

Pennsylvania- Famous People

Many famous people were born and raised in Pennsylvania and many famous people call Pennsylvania their home today. This includes actors, athletes, authors, politicians and entertainers. Arguable the most famous native was US President James Buchanan who was the 15th US president from 1857- 1861. Jimmy Stewart the well known and liked actor, Arnold Palmer the renowned golfer and Honus Wagner the baseball player were all born in Pennsylvania.