Capital: Olympia
Population: 7,535,591 (Source: 2012 U.S. Census)
Washington is a state known for its lush forests, mountainous landscapes, and thriving urban centers. Its population has grown steadily due to booming industries like technology, aerospace, and agriculture. Major cities such as Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma continue to attract new residents and businesses.
Major Cities: Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue, Kent
Seattle is Washington’s largest city and a global hub for technology, commerce, and culture. Spokane is a key city in eastern Washington with a strong economy in healthcare and education. Tacoma, Bellevue, and Vancouver are important for trade, industry, and urban growth. These cities collectively contribute to Washington’s diverse economic and cultural identity.
Borders: Oregon, Idaho, Canada, Pacific Ocean
Washington shares borders with Oregon to the south, Idaho to the east, and Canada to the north. The western edge of the state opens to the Pacific Ocean, giving it access to maritime trade and a temperate climate along the coast.
Gross Domestic Product (GDP): $375,730 million (2012 U.S. Department of Commerce)
Washington has a robust economy powered by technology, aerospace, agriculture, and trade. The state’s GDP reflects the high value of goods and services produced, making it one of the most economically significant states on the West Coast.
Key Industries:
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Agriculture, including apples, berries, cattle, fishing, poultry, and wheat
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Timber and wood products, paper products
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Computer software and technology
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Aerospace and aircraft manufacturing
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Tourism
Washington’s fertile land and abundant forests have made agriculture and timber vital industries for centuries. Companies like Microsoft and Boeing have positioned the state as a global leader in technology and aerospace. Tourism also plays an important role, attracting visitors to its mountains, lakes, and national parks.
How Washington Got Its Name:
Washington is the only U.S. state named after a president. Congress chose the name to honor George Washington, the first president of the United States. Originally, residents suggested the name “Columbia,” but Washington ultimately became the official name.
Washington State Symbols
State Nickname: Evergreen State
Washington earned this nickname because of its dense forests and large areas of evergreen trees, which cover much of the state’s landscape.
State Slogan: SayWA! (formerly: Experience Washington; The Evergreen State; also used on license plates)
State Motto: Al-Ki (an Indian word meaning “bye-and-bye”)
State Flower: Rhododendron
The rhododendron blooms across the state and is cherished for its vibrant, colorful flowers.
State Bird: Willow Goldfinch, also known as the American Goldfinch
This bright yellow bird is found throughout the state and symbolizes its natural beauty.
State Fish: Steelhead Trout
A key species for both sport fishing and ecological balance, the steelhead trout thrives in Washington’s rivers and streams.
State Tree: Western Hemlock
This tall evergreen tree is common in the state’s forests and a symbol of Washington’s lush natural environment.
State Mammal: Orca (Killer Whale)
Orcas are iconic to Washington’s coastal waters and are celebrated for their intelligence and social behavior.
State Food: Blueberry Muffin
The blueberry muffin is a nod to the state’s thriving blueberry farms and culinary culture.
Becoming a State
Date Admitted: Monday, November 11, 1889
Number Admitted: 42
Prior Name: Washington Territory
Postal Abbreviation: WA
Washington became the 42nd state in the United States in 1889. Its admission followed decades of settlement and development after explorers, fur traders, and pioneers moved into the region. The state transitioned from the Washington Territory to statehood, joining the Union as a key part of the Pacific Northwest.
The Geography of Washington
Total Size: 66,544 sq. miles (source: 2003 Census)
Washington is a geographically diverse state, with mountains, valleys, plains, and coastline. Its natural features make it ideal for agriculture, forestry, outdoor recreation, and urban development.
Geographical Low Point: Pacific Ocean at Sea Level (source: U.S. Geological Survey)
Geographical High Point: Mount Rainier at 14,411 feet in Pierce County (source: U.S. Geological Survey)
Mount Rainier is an iconic stratovolcano and a major landmark for climbers and nature enthusiasts.
Central Point: Chelan County, approximately 10 miles west-southwest of Wenatchee (source: U.S. Geological Survey)
Counties: 39
Washington’s 39 counties are home to cities, towns, and rural communities that contribute to the state’s cultural and economic diversity.
Bodies of Water: Pacific Ocean, Puget Sound, Strait of Juan de Fuca, Columbia River, Snake River, Skagit River, Lake Chelan, Lake Washington
These waterways are vital for trade, fishing, transportation, and recreation. The Puget Sound, in particular, supports ports, shipping, and fishing industries.
Famous People from Washington
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Bob Barker – Game show host
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Kurt Cobain – Singer and songwriter, lead of Nirvana
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Bing Crosby – Singer and actor
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Bill Gates – Co-founder of Microsoft
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John Elway – Professional football player
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Richard Gordon – Astronaut
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Alex Haley – Author of Roots
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Jimi Hendrix – Legendary rock guitarist
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Steve Largent – Professional football player
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Gary Larson – Cartoonist, creator of The Far Side
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Tim Lincecum – Professional baseball player
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Carl Sagan – Astronomer and science communicator
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Hope Solo – Professional soccer player
These notable individuals highlight Washington’s influence in technology, music, sports, literature, and science.
Fun Facts About Washington
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Boeing has its final assembly plant in Everett, the largest building in the world.
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Seattle is home to the Space Needle, which features a rotating restaurant at the top.
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Washington is the only U.S. state named after a president.
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The state is the leading producer of apples in the nation.
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Washington earned its nickname, the Evergreen State, because of its vast forests of evergreen trees.
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Microsoft Corporation is headquartered in Redmond. Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and one of the richest people in the U.S., also resides in the state.
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The state insect is the dragonfly.
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Aberdeen, Washington was once known as the “roughest town west of the Mississippi.”
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Mount St. Helens is an active volcano that erupted massively in 1980, reshaping the surrounding landscape.
Professional Sports Teams
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Seattle Storm – WNBA (basketball)
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Seattle Mariners – MLB (baseball)
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Seattle Seahawks – NFL (football)
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Seattle Sounders – MLS (soccer)
Washington’s sports teams are an important part of its culture, providing entertainment and fostering community pride across the state.
Washington is a state of natural beauty, innovation, and cultural significance. From its forests and mountains to its bustling cities, the Evergreen State offers a unique combination of history, economic strength, and outdoor recreation. Its contributions in technology, aerospace, agriculture, and entertainment make it a key state in the United States. Residents and visitors alike enjoy its thriving cities, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, making Washington a truly remarkable place to live, work, and explore