DeKalb County, Georgia

Stone Mountain Park, DeKalb County, Georgia

DeKalb County, Georgia is a county located in the north-central part of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was approximately 764,382, making it the fourth-most populous county in Georgia. The county seat is Decatur.

History

DeKalb County was established on December 9, 1822, and was named after Johann de Kalb, a Bavarian-born former officer in the French Army, who served as a major general in the American Revolutionary War. The area that now comprises DeKalb County was ceded to the United States by the Creek people in the early 19th century.

Geography

Covering an area of about 271 square miles, DeKalb County is bordered by Fulton County to the west, Gwinnett County to the northeast, and Rockdale County to the east. The county's topography ranges from urban areas in the west to more rural and suburban settings in the east and south. The northern part of the county is part of the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

Government and Politics

DeKalb County operates under a CEO-commission form of government, with a Chief Executive Officer leading the executive branch and a seven-member Board of Commissioners serving as the legislative body. The county is known for its diverse political landscape, with a strong presence of Democratic voters.

Demographics

DeKalb County is noted for its diversity, with a significant portion of the population being African American, alongside growing Hispanic and Asian communities. The county has become a melting pot of cultures, languages, and religions, reflecting broader demographic trends in the Atlanta metropolitan area.

Economy

The economy of DeKalb County is diverse, with major sectors including education, healthcare, retail, and professional services. The county is home to several institutions of higher education, including Emory University and Georgia State University's Perimeter College. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), located adjacent to Emory University's campus, is also a major employer.

Education

DeKalb County's public schools are managed by the DeKalb County School District, which is one of the largest school systems in Georgia. The county also boasts a variety of private schools and is home to several institutions of higher learning, contributing to the county's reputation as an educational hub.

Transportation

Transportation in DeKalb County is facilitated by a network of major highways, including Interstate 20, Interstate 285, and Interstate 85. Public transportation is provided by the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), which operates bus and rail services connecting DeKalb County with the wider Atlanta metropolitan area.

Culture and Recreation

DeKalb County offers a rich cultural experience with numerous parks, museums, and historic sites. The county's diverse population contributes to a vibrant food scene, with a wide array of international cuisines available. Recreational opportunities abound in the county's many parks and recreational areas, including the renowned Stone Mountain Park, which lies partially within the county's borders.