Carolina, North Carolina facts for kids

Carolina, North Carolina is a phrase that can refer to a few different places in the state of North Carolina. Sometimes, it might mean a specific small community. Other times, people might be thinking about the larger state of North Carolina itself, or even the historical region of "The Carolinas," which includes both North and South Carolina.

This article will help you learn more about North Carolina, its history, geography, and what makes it a special place.

What is North Carolina?

North Carolina is one of the 50 states in the United States. It is located in the southeastern part of the country. The state is known for its diverse geography, which includes beautiful mountains, rolling hills, and a long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.

Where is North Carolina located?

North Carolina is part of the Southern United States. It shares borders with several other states. To the north, it borders Virginia. To the west, it borders Tennessee. To the south, it borders Georgia and South Carolina. The eastern side of the state faces the Atlantic Ocean.

What is the capital city of North Carolina?

The capital city of North Carolina is Raleigh. It is a large and important city in the state. Raleigh is a center for technology and education. Other major cities include Charlotte, which is the largest city, and Greensboro.

Exploring North Carolina's Geography

North Carolina has three main geographic regions. These are the Mountains, the Piedmont, and the Coastal Plain. Each region has its own unique features and natural beauty.

The Mountain Region

The western part of North Carolina is home to the Appalachian Mountains. This includes the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains. These mountains are very old and have rounded peaks. They are covered with thick forests.

What are some famous mountain peaks?

Mount Mitchell is the highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains. It is located in North Carolina. Many people visit the mountains for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a famous scenic road that winds through this region.

The Piedmont Region

East of the mountains is the Piedmont region. This area is made up of rolling hills and valleys. The word "Piedmont" means "foot of the mountain." This region is where most of North Carolina's major cities are located.

Why is the Piedmont important?

The Piedmont is a busy area with many farms, factories, and businesses. It has a mix of forests and open land. The soil here is often red clay. Rivers flow from the mountains through the Piedmont towards the coast.

The Coastal Plain Region

The eastern part of North Carolina is the Coastal Plain. This region is flat and low-lying. It stretches all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. This area includes beaches, swamps, and fertile farmland.

What are the Outer Banks?

The Outer Banks are a string of narrow barrier islands off the coast. They are famous for their beautiful beaches and historic lighthouses. The Outer Banks are also where the Wright brothers made their first successful flight in 1903. This happened near Kitty Hawk.

A Look at North Carolina's History

North Carolina has a rich history, dating back thousands of years. Native American tribes lived here long before European explorers arrived. Later, it became one of the original 13 colonies of the United States.

Early Native American Life

Before Europeans came, many Native American tribes lived in North Carolina. Important tribes included the Cherokee, the Lumbee, and the Tuscarora. They had complex societies and lived off the land.

European Settlement and Colonial Times

The first English attempts to settle in North America happened in North Carolina. The Roanoke Colony was established in the late 1500s. However, it mysteriously disappeared, earning it the name "The Lost Colony."

North Carolina later became one of the 13 British colonies. It played a role in the American Revolution. Many North Carolinians fought for independence from Great Britain.

North Carolina in the United States

After the American Revolution, North Carolina became the 12th state to join the United States in 1789. The state grew and developed over the centuries. It became known for its agriculture, especially tobacco and cotton.

How did North Carolina contribute to the nation?

North Carolina has contributed greatly to American culture and industry. It is known for its strong universities and research. The state has also been a leader in furniture manufacturing and textiles. Today, technology and banking are also very important.

Interesting Facts About North Carolina

• North Carolina is often called the "Tar Heel State." This nickname might come from the state's early production of tar, pitch, and turpentine from pine trees.
• The state flower is the Flowering dogwood.
• The state bird is the Northern cardinal.
• North Carolina is home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which is one of the oldest public universities in the United States.
• The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is the largest privately owned house in the United States. It is a popular tourist attraction.

Images for kids

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  Location of North Carolina in the United States

• Mount Mitchell State Park.jpg

  Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains

• Bodie Island Lighthouse, Outer Banks, North Carolina.jpg

  Bodie Island Lighthouse on the Outer Banks