California Is More Than Just Hollywood and Beaches
California is the most populated state in the USA, with over 38 million people. It sits in the West region, right on the Pacific coast. California became the 31st state on September 9, 1850.
Its nickname is the Golden State, and its motto, Eureka, means “I found it!” The name comes from a mythical paradise in an old Spanish story.
- Capital: Sacramento
- Abbreviation: CA
- Population: 38,332,521
- Statehood: September 9, 1850
Which Part of the USA Is California?
California sits on the West Coast, bordering the Pacific Ocean. It shares borders with three states: Arizona, Nevada, and Oregon. Because it touches the ocean, California has a huge coastline of about 840 miles!
State Symbols
California has special symbols that represent its history and nature.
| Symbol | Name |
|---|---|
| Bird | California Valley Quail |
| Animal | California Grizzly Bear |
| Tree | California Redwood |
| Flower | California Poppy |
| Fruit | Avocado |
| Gemstone | Benitoite |
| Song | “I Love You, California” |
The state flag shows a grizzly bear and a single red star, made famous during the Bear Flag Revolt in 1846.
Geography: Mountains, Valleys, and Coastline
California is the 3rd largest state by area, with tall mountains and deep valleys.
- Highest point: Mt. Whitney, 14,494 feet
- Lowest point: Badwater Basin in Death Valley, 282 feet below sea level
- Geographic center: 38 miles east of Madera
Big cities include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, and Sacramento.
National Parks
California has 28 national parks and monuments, more than almost any other state! Popular ones include:
- Yosemite National Park
- Death Valley National Park
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Sequoia National Park
- Redwood National Park
- Channel Islands National Park
These parks protect giant redwood trees, desert landscapes, and rocky coastlines.
Sports Teams
Sports are huge in California! The state has many high school, college, and professional teams fans cheer for all year, from football and basketball to baseball and soccer.
Famous People
California has been home to many famous people, including:
- Tom Hanks – actor
- Katy Perry – singer
- Kamala Harris – politician
- Steve Jobs – Apple founder
State Government
- Governor: Gavin Newsom
- Senators: Dianne Feinstein and Alex Padilla
- Electoral College Votes: 55
California has its own state constitution, written when it joined the union.
Economy: Farms and Factories
California’s economy is one of the strongest in the world.
- Agriculture: fruits, vegetables, nuts, dairy, grapes, cattle
- Industry: technology, film, aerospace, tourism
This mix of farming and big business makes California an economic powerhouse.
Education
California offers many ways to learn, including:
- Community and technical colleges
- Nursing schools
- Public and private school directories
What Is California Famous For?
California is famous for so many things! Here’s a quick list:
- Hollywood – the heart of the movie industry
- Silicon Valley – home to top tech companies
- Yosemite and Redwood forests – stunning natural beauty
- Beaches – like Malibu and Santa Monica
- Diverse cities – Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego
Quick Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capital | Sacramento |
| Population | 38,332,521 |
| Bordering States | Arizona, Nevada, Oregon |
| Highest Point | Mt. Whitney |
| Lowest Point | Death Valley |
| National Parks | 28 |
From snowy mountains to sunny beaches, California has a little bit of everything. It’s no wonder so many people dream of visiting—or living in—the Golden State!