Although it is one of the smallest states in U.S.,
Connecticut is also one of the most densely populated. It is also an important part of American history; it was one of the original 13 colonies, and its political charters were the basis for many of the ideas put forth in the American Constitution and Declaration of Independence. Because it was a British colony, many of its customs look back to England. For example, the oldest towns are still arranged around a common "green," and many of the towns' names refer to places in England. For a quaint
moving destination, Connecticut may be the perfect place for you.
Origin of state's name: The origin of Connecticut's name was not British. Its original name was "Quonehtacut," which means "long tidal river" in the Mohican Indian language.
Capital city: Hartford is Connecticut's capital city. It was established 375 years ago as a small port town due to its location on the last navigable part of the Connecticut River. It began as a Dutch trading post named "The House of Hope," and it was soon enlarged by the addition of a group of English settlers led by Reverend Thomas Hooker. The colony's Fundamental Orders were the first document in America that established a government based on the will of its people.
Population: As of 2009, the U.S. Census Department estimates that Connecticut's population is slightly more than 3.5 million people.
Driving: Driver's license information, applications, testing requirements, driver's manuals and testing locations can all be found on the
Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.
Agriculture and Industry: Since its population boom in the early 19th century, agriculture has played a relatively small part in the Connecticut economy, and manufacturing has come to the fore. The military defense sector has traditionally played a strong part in the state's finances, and so have other manufacturing sectors such as aircraft engines, hardware, computer parts, electrical equipment, guns and optical equipment. As manufacturing has moved overseas, financial services have taken the lead, particularly insurance services.
State Bird: The Connecticut state bird is the American robin. Its red breast and cheerful song reminded early European settlers of the English robin, but the American version is actually a member of the thrush family.
State Tree: The state tree is the charter oak. This was a majestic oak where the Charter of Connecticut was once hidden by Captain Joseph Wadsworth. His action prevented agents of the king of England from seizing the Charter by force, and thus limited the king's control of Connecticut affairs.
State Flower: The state flower is the mountain laurel, a shrub with glossy green leaves and sweet-smelling pink and white flowers.
State Song: "Yankee Doodle" is the Connecticut state song. It was originally written by the British troops to mock the American revolutionary soldiers, but the rebels added a few flattering verses and adopted the tune as their own.