Coordinates: 41°N 77°W / 41°N 77°W / 41; -77

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
State
Flag of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Flag
Official seal of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Seal
Location of Pennsylvania in the United States
Location of Pennsylvania in the United States
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CountryUnited States
Admitted to the UnionDecember 12, 1787
Area
 • Total46,055 sq mi (119,283 km2)
 • Land44,817 sq mi (116,075 km2)
 • Water1,239 sq mi (3,208 km2)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total13,002,700
Time zoneUTC-5 (Eastern)
 • Summer (DST)UTC-4 (Eastern)


The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a state located in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. It is bordered by Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio, New York, New Jersey, and Lake Erie.

History[edit | edit source]

Pennsylvania was one of the original 13 colonies that formed the United States. It was founded in 1681 as a result of a royal land grant to William Penn, the son of the state's namesake. The state played a crucial role in the American Revolution and was the site of the Second Continental Congress and the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Pennsylvania is known for its diverse geography, which includes the Appalachian Mountains, the Allegheny Plateau, and the Piedmont region. The state has a varied climate, with cold winters and humid summers.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Pennsylvania is diverse, with key industries including manufacturing, agriculture, and energy production. The state is a leading producer of mushrooms, apples, and Christmas trees. It is also known for its coal, natural gas, and steel production.

Demographics[edit | edit source]

As of the 2020 census, Pennsylvania has a population of approximately 13 million people, making it the fifth-most populous state in the United States. The largest city is Philadelphia, known for its rich history and cultural heritage.

Education[edit | edit source]

Pennsylvania is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University, and Pennsylvania State University. The state has a strong public education system and numerous private institutions.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Pennsylvania has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from its Pennsylvania Dutch and Quaker communities. The state is known for its contributions to American music, art, and cuisine, including the famous Philadelphia cheesesteak.

Government[edit | edit source]

The government of Pennsylvania is structured as a commonwealth, with a governor, a bicameral legislature, and a judicial system. The state capital is Harrisburg.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  • "QuickFacts: Pennsylvania". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved October 10, 2023.


External links[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD