Illinois is a pretty amazing state. It has a rich history, a diverse population, and some pretty incredible things to see and do. Here are 14 cool facts about Illinois that you probably didn’t know.
1. Illinois is the most populous state in the Midwest.
With over 12 million residents, the state is home to a variety of different cultures and ethnicities. And its economy is diverse, with a strong focus on agriculture, manufacturing, and service industries.
Illinois is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. The state has a lot to offer, from its scenic parks and lakes to its vibrant cities and towns. If you’re thinking of moving to Illinois, you won’t be disappointed.
2. Its capital city is Springfield, and its largest city is Chicago. (but you probably knew that).
Chicago is the most populous city in the state of Illinois, with over 2.7 million residents. It is also the third most populous city in the United States, after New York City and Los Angeles. Chicago is a global city and an important center of commerce, industry, transportation, and culture. It is home to many world-renowned skyscrapers, museums, and sports teams like the Cubs, White Sox, Bears, Bulls, and Sky.
3. Illinois is known as the “Land of Lincoln” because it is the state where Abraham Lincoln was born and raised.
Throughout his life, Abraham Lincoln was an Illinoisan. He was born in Kentucky in 1809, but he moved to Illinois in 1831. He settled in the town of New Salem, where he worked as a clerk and a surveyor. He later moved to Springfield, Illinois, where he practiced law and served in the Illinois legislature. Lincoln also spent time in Decatur, Chicago, and other parts of Illinois during his career.
Because of his close connection to the state, Illinois is often called the “Land of Lincoln.” In fact, there are many memorials and landmarks dedicated to Lincoln throughout the state. If you’re ever in Illinois, be sure to check out some of these Abe Lincoln-related sites.
4. The state is also home to the first McDonald’s restaurant, which opened in 1955 in Des Plaines, IL.
The state of Illinois is home to many firsts. In addition to being the home of the first McDonald’s restaurant, the state was also the first to ratify the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery.
5. Minimum Wage
Illinois was also the first state to establish a minimum wage and the first to ratify the 21st Amendment, which repeals Prohibition.
6. Illinois was admitted to the US as the 21st state in 1818
In 1818, Illinois became the 21st state to be admitted to the United States of America.
Here are some other quick and notable facts about the state of Illinois:
7. The state flower of Illinois is the violet
Violets are a great addition to any lawn or garden.
8. The state bird of Illinois is the Northern cardinal
Cubs fans don’t like the St. Louis Cardinals, but Illinoisans can appreciate the beautiful Northern cardinal bird.
9. Illinois is bordered by Wisconsin to the north, Iowa to the west, Missouri to the south, and Indiana to the east.
Midwest solid! We love our bordering neighbors.
10. The state’s name is derived from the Native American tribe that once inhabited the area.
There you go. The more you know.
11. Illinois is home to one of the world’s tallest buildings, the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), which is located in downtown Chicago
The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is one of the tallest buildings in the world. It is located in downtown Chicago, Illinois, and stands at 1,451 feet tall.
The Willis Tower was completed in 1974 and was the tallest building in the world for 25 years. It is currently the second-tallest building in the United States, behind One World Trade Center in New York City.
12. Illinois has a variety of different climate zones, from the hot and humid summer days in the south to the cold and snowy winters in the north
And don’t forget the polar vortexes!
13. Illinois is a major producer of corn, soybeans, and wheat
The state is also a major transportation hub, with several major interstate highways and rail lines running through it.
14. Education and universities
In addition to these industries, Illinois is also home to a number of universities and colleges, making it a major center of education.
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Illinois is a state with a rich history and many interesting facts. From being the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln to being home to the world’s largest bottle of ketchup, there is something for everyone in Illinois. Its diverse landscapes, including the Chicago skyline and the Shawnee National Forest, offer a unique experience to visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or soak up some history and culture, Illinois has something to offer. These fun facts only scratch the surface of what makes Illinois such a great state to visit and live in.
Thanks!