Information about Florida for your school project

Check out these links:
http://www.ducksters.com/geography/state.php?State=Florida
http://www.ducksters.com/geography/us_states/florida_history.php
http://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida

• Where Is This Place Called Florida, and What Is It Like?

  The state of Florida fills the entire low level peninsula in the southeastern U.S. Thus, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the peninsula extends 460 miles.

  Florida has the longest ocean coastline of any state in the union. It boasts the southernmost city in the entire United States, which is Key West.

  Its mild temperatures during winter are very appealing to the elderly. Many from all over the U.S. live out the winter months, or their golden years, in this warm climate. Although summers are hot, the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico provide relaxation and enjoyment for vacationers and locals alike.

  Outdoor sports are a big part of Florida's heritage. Fishing has gained high recognition there. The Everglades, the largest wetland system in the U.S., provides miles of rich waters filled with wildlife such as alligators, birds, and all types of fish. This area was home to Native Americans, and later on, early settlers. Over time, these groups have steadily left the area to fishermen and tourists.

  In 1906, the Everglades were drained to provide more land during one of the biggest land booms. Since then, their value has begun to be understood. Thus, flooding has begun to reestablish the glades.

• What Are Some Important Fun Facts About Florida?

  • The Capital is Tallahassee.
  • Florida is a middle-sized state. Twenty one states are larger than FL.
  • St. Augustine is considered the oldest city in the U.S. It was founded in 1565, thus holding the title by default since the state of Florida was not actually considered a state until nearly three centuries later.
  • Farming is a big part of Florida's economy. Fruit such as oranges and grapefruit, as well as vegetables such as tomatoes, celery, beans, and potatoes are grown there.
  • Many types of factory jobs exist, most of which have something to do with freezing and canning the produce and vegetables grown in Florida.
  • Frozen orange juice is one of Florida's leading products.
  • Florida can boast the first regular airline service in the world. It was established between St. Petersburg and Tampa in 1914.
  • NASA is stationed there. Many have watched numerous space-related flights take off and land, thus bringing further fame to the state. It is located on the eastern coast at Cape Canaveral.
  • Florida is covered on all sides by salt water, except the northern land connection.

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