Fun Easy English - Travel the United States of America

CAPITAL CITY: Boston

BACKGROUND

The colony was named after a local Indian tribe whose name means "a large hill place." Massachusetts was one of the six New England states, and one of the first 13 states in the Union (it entered in 1788). The Pilgrims established their settlement at Plymouth in 1620, arriving on the "Mayflower". They were Puritans, who established the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The birthplace of many of the ideals of the American Revolution, Massachusetts attracted people who believed in self-government. Massachusetts is the sixth smallest state of the United States but it stands among the leaders in many fields. Universities in and around Boston help make the area one of the world's great cultural, educational, medical and research centers.

Map showing the location of Massachusetts

Historic sites date back to the Pilgrims, to colonial witchcraft trials, and to the Revolutionary War. Skiing brings many visitors to the Berkshire Hills and to other parts of the state. The Atlantic Ocean and many lakes and rivers also attract water sports enthusiasts.

QUICK FACTS

The great seal of the state of Massachusetts

Nickname: Bay State / Old Colony State

Motto: Ense Petit Placidam Sub Libertate quietem (By the Sword We Seek Peace, But Peace Only Under Liberty)

Statehood: May 16, 1788 (6th)

Origin of State's Name: Named after local Indian tribe whose name means "a large hill place."

Largest Cities: Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, New Bedford

Border States: Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont

Land Area: 7,838 sq. mi.; 45th largest

State Bird: Black-capped Chickadee (Penthestes atricapillus)

State Flower: Mayflower (epigaea regens)

State Tree: American Elm (ulmus americana)

State Song: Hail Massachusetts

USEFUL LINKS

Miscellaneous

Travel and tourism site for Massachusetts - This state travel and territorial tourism site provides ideas for your vacations, meetings, and more.