The slogan “Virginia is for Lovers,” was created in 1969 when peace and love were the themes of the day. However, the fact is, Virginia is still for lovers, because people discover more to love about the state every day. If you love history, Virginia is for you. If you love the outdoors, Virginia is for you. If you love education, shopping, eating, nightlife, culture or sports, Virginia is for you.
      One of four states that use the name “commonwealth,” the Commonwealth of Virginia is one of the original 13 colonies and was the first part of the Americas to be permanently colonized by the British. Sir Walter Raleigh dubbed the entire area he explored in the late 16th century “Virginia” after Queen Elizabeth I, England’s “Virgin Queen.” The name would come to apply to the entire coast from present-day South Carolina to Maine. The first British settlement in the New World was Jamestown, named in honor of Elizabeth’s successor, James I, in 1607, and founded by Captain Christopher Newport and Captain John Smith.

Did You Know...

State Nickname: Old Dominion State Capital: Richmond State Flower: American Dogwood State Bird: Cardinal

      With approximately 7.2 million residents, Virginia ranks 12th in population and 14th in population density, although much of the state remains fairly rural. Virginia continues to experience migration into the state from within the country and from outside the U.S. As one of the oldest states and part of the American South, Virginia’s population is fairly diverse, with 69 percent of the population as Caucasian, 20 percent black, 4 percent Hispanic and 4 percent Asian.
      Virginia is geographically divided into five regions: Tidewater, Piedmont, Blue Ridge Mountains, Valley and Ridge and Appalachian Plateau. Although it is located in the Southern United States, it is sometimes included geographically with the Mid-Atlantic states.

Also, much of the northern part of the state is considered more to be suburban Washington, D.C. than part of the South.
      Traditionally, Virginia’s economy is fairly well-balanced, with diverse industries. Among its sources of income are military installations, cattle, tobacco, peanuts, software, communications, consulting, defense contracts and mining. Due to its geographical position near to Washington, D.C. and to the Mid-Atlantic states, Virginia is generally the wealthiest state in the South. In addition to its strong economy, the state is also attractive to businesses and residents because it imposes no state property tax or inheritance tax.
      Education is given high regard in Virginia, which helps residents compete in tough markets, such as Washington, D.C. Home to almost 70 colleges and universities, including some of the oldest in the country, Virginia plays host to many of the countries top minds. Prominent educational institutions include The University of Virginia, College of William and Mary, Washington and Lee University and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (commonly known as Virginia Tech).

From the exciting nightlife and beaches of Virginia Beach to the quiet beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and majestic Shenandoah Valley to the astounding heritage at historic Jamestown, Virginia has a little bit of everything. Nature lovers and adrenalin junkies can explore the mountains, attend a NASCAR event, try out hang gliding or enjoy year-round golf. Virginia is home to the renowned Shenandoah National Park, as well as 35 state parks, ranging from sandy beaches with historic lighthouses to lush mountain landscapes..
      The state’s rich, extensive history has left a legacy of historic sites, cemeteries, museums and exhibits. Virginia is also known for great shopping at its many factory outlets, flea markets, auctions, antique shops and boutiques, attracting shoppers from surrounding states, as well as Virginia residents and visitors. With its proximity to many of the great urban centers along the East Coast, Virginia also has more than its share of world-class arts and culture. Some of these mainstays include the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and the Richmond Ballet, as well as unique fixtures like Red Crooked Sky, a collaborative group of American Indians dedicated to promoting cultural awareness through traditional and contemporary dance.
      With its central role in all of modern American history and its diversity in culture, landscape and economy, Virginia has a permanent place as one of America’s best loved states.