Salt Lake City, Utah, the county seat of Salt Lake County, is the largest city in the state, as well as the state capital. It is located in north central Utah.
Salt Lake City is a major center of agriculture, technology, and manufacturing, and natural resources in the area include iron, silver, lead, zinc, and copper. Computers, electronics and various other equipments are commonly produced in Salt Lake City. The bulk of the city's economy is service-based. The federal government is the largest employer in the city accounting for 21 percent of the workforce. Another major employer is Delta Airlines, which has a hub at the Salt Lake City International Airport. Additionally, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which is headquartered in the city employs many people and has a significant effect on the economy. Tourism is also an important part of the economy, with the strong economy in recent years keeping Salt Lake City movers very busy.
History:
A group of Latter-Day Saints first settled in the area in 1847. The city was incorporated in 1851 and subsequently made the capital of the territory in 1858. Disputes arose between religious citizens and the government over the practice of polygamy. U.S. troops were brought in to control the situation and detain certain leaders. In 1890, "The Manifesto" was released which spoke down polygamy for Latter-Day Saints. Soon after in 1896, the Utah officially became a state with Salt Lake City as the capital. In 1870, railroads reached Salt Lake City, bringing more diverse people to the area.
During the 1900's, many people began to move to surrounding suburbs limiting the growth of the city. However, during the 1990's, the city's population once again flourished as well as the economy.
Tourism:
Salt Lake City International Airport is within six miles of the city. The Utah Jazz of the NBA is the only major sports team in the city, although several smaller professional and collegiate teams exist in the area. Historical destinations in Salt Lake City include the state capitol building, Brigham Young's original house, and a monument of Brigham Young. Being the headquarters of the Latter-Day Saints, many tourists are attracted to Salt Lake City. Around Temple Square include the notable Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle, and the recently built conference center. Additionally, the Genealogical Library of the church is popular among visitors. The city also hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics which drew several thousands of tourists to the already strong tourism industry.