The fertile plains of Illinois have served as a hub for commerce and transportation for centuries. Situated in the center of the North American continent, Illinois has boundaries that are largely defined by three great rivers-the Mississippi, Ohio and Wabash-and by the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Home to one of the country's largest cities, Illinois has created a flourishing economy, rich American history and an assortment of diverse cities and neighborhoods.

Origin of State's Name: Illinois is the French version of an Algonquin Indian word for "warriors" or "tribe of superior men."

Capital City: Springfield became the Illinois state capital in 1837 with the help of a young lawyer and politician named Abraham Lincoln. He lived in the city until he left to become the 16th President of the United States, in 1861. From that moment on, the city's history and future have been inexorably tied to this most famous and beloved American citizen. Springfield is the centerpiece of Illinois political activity. The state capitol building contains a flurry of legislative activity each fall and spring as Illinois is one of the largest and most influential states in the U.S. The city also serves as the seat of Sangamon County government. The Springfield municipal government utilizes a strong mayoral aldermanic council form of government to provide representation to over 120,000 residents.

Population: There are approximately 12.5 million people that live in Illinois - making it a popular moving destination.

Driving: Driver's license information, applications, testing requirements, driver's manuals and testing locations can all be found on the Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.

Agriculture and Industry: Illinois agriculture includes corn, soybeans, hogs, cattle, dairy products and wheat. Machinery, food processing, electric equipment, chemical products, printing and publishing, fabricated metal products, transportation equipment, petroleum, coal are the state's leading industries.

State Bird: The cardinal is the state bird.

State Tree: Illinois' state tree, the white oak, is a large tree with rugged, irregular crowns that are wide spreading.

State Flower: A large showy flowers, the purple violet is the state flower of Illinois.

State Song: Written by C.H. Chamberlain, "Illinois" is the official state song.