Vermont

Vermont
Name	Vermont
Motto	Freedom and Unity
Anthem	"These Green Mountains"
Capital	Montpelier
Largest city	Burlington
Admission date	March 4, 1791 (14th)
Governor	Phil Scott
Lieutenant governor	David Zuckerman
Legislature	Vermont General Assembly
Senators	Peter Welch and Bernie Sanders
Timezone	Eastern Time Zone
Postal abbreviation	VT

Vermont is a state in the New England region of the Northeastern United States. It is bordered by Massachusetts to the south, New Hampshire to the east, New York to the west, and the Canadian province of Quebec to the north. Admitted to the Union on March 4, 1791, as the 14th state, it is the only one in New England not bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. The state capital is Montpelier, the least populous state capital in the country, while its most populous city is Burlington.

Geography

Vermont's landscape is defined by the forested Green Mountains, which run north-south through the center of the state, and Lake Champlain, which forms half of its western border with New York. Major rivers include the Connecticut River, which forms its eastern border with New Hampshire, and the Winooski River. The highest point is Mount Mansfield at 4,393 feet, and the lowest is Lake Champlain. The climate is characterized by humid continental conditions, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers, making it a prime location for skiing at resorts like Stowe, Killington, and Sugarbush.

History

The area was originally inhabited by Indigenous tribes, primarily the Abenaki. The first European settlement was established by the French at Fort Sainte Anne on Isle La Motte in 1666. The region was contested between New France and the British colonies, particularly New Hampshire and New York, leading to the formation of the independent Vermont Republic in 1777. Figures like Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys were instrumental in this period. It joined the United States in 1791, and during the American Civil War, it contributed significantly to the Union Army at battles like the Battle of Gettysburg.

Government and politics

Vermont's government operates under the Constitution of Vermont, with a governor, currently Phil Scott, and a bicameral legislature known as the Vermont General Assembly. The state's congressional delegation includes Senators Peter Welch and independent Bernie Sanders, and its single House representative, Becca Balint. It is known for its progressive political tradition, being the first state to constitutionally abolish slavery and to recognize civil unions. The state capital, Montpelier, houses key institutions like the Vermont Supreme Court and the historic Vermont State House.

Economy

Historically dominated by agriculture, particularly dairy farming and the production of maple syrup, Vermont's economy has diversified into manufacturing, tourism, and technology. Major employers include GlobalFoundries in Essex Junction, Ben & Jerry's in Waterbury, and Killington Resort. The University of Vermont in Burlington and companies like Burton Snowboards are also significant. The state is a leading producer of marble and granite, with quarries near Barre, and its scenic landscape supports a robust tourism industry centered on outdoor recreation.

Demographics

With a population of approximately 650,000, it is the second-least populous state after Wyoming. The largest city is Burlington, within Chittenden County, which is the state's most populous county. Other significant population centers include Rutland, South Burlington, and Barre. The population is predominantly of European descent, with smaller communities of Hispanic, Asian, and African American residents. The Abenaki maintain a recognized presence in the state.

Culture

Vermont's culture is deeply connected to its rural character, environmental stewardship, and independent spirit. It is famous for its Teddy Bear Company, the Shelburne Museum, and the annual Vermont Maple Festival in St. Albans. Literary figures like Rudyard Kipling and Robert Frost have strong associations with the state. The Vermont Symphony Orchestra and events like the Stowe Winter Carnival highlight its arts scene. Culinary traditions emphasize local products, including Cabot cheese and craft beers from breweries like The Alchemist in Stowe.

Category:Vermont Category:States of the United States Category:1791 establishments in the United States