Raleigh

Raleigh is the capital of the U.S. state of North Carolina and the seat of Wake County. It is the second-largest city in North Carolina, following Charlotte. Raleigh is known as the "City of Oaks" for its many oak trees, which line the streets in the heart of the city. The city covers a land area of 142.8 square miles and had a population of approximately 467,665 as of the 2020 census, making it the 41st most populous city in the United States.

History

Raleigh was chosen as the site of the new state capital in 1788 and was officially established in 1792. The city was named after Sir Walter Raleigh, who sponsored the establishment of the Roanoke Colony, the first English colony in America. Raleigh's growth was slow during the 19th century, but it experienced a boom in the 20th century, primarily due to its role as a center for education and government.

Geography

Raleigh is located in the northeast central region of North Carolina, where the Piedmont and Atlantic Coastal Plain regions meet. The city's terrain is generally flat with rolling hills. Several creeks and small lakes dot the area, contributing to its lush vegetation.

Economy

The economy of Raleigh is diverse, with major contributions from the public sector, technology, and education. It is part of North Carolina's Research Triangle, a major U.S. center of high-tech and biotech research, which includes North Carolina State University located in Raleigh, as well as nearby Duke University and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The Research Triangle Park, located nearby, is one of the largest research parks in the world.

Culture

Raleigh is home to numerous cultural, educational, and historical sites. It hosts various arts, music, and cultural festivals, including the annual North Carolina State Fair. Notable institutions include the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the North Carolina Museum of History. The city also has a vibrant music and nightlife scene.

Government

As the state capital, Raleigh is the center of North Carolina's government. The North Carolina General Assembly and the governor's office are located here. The city operates under a council-manager government, with a mayor elected at large and a city council of eight members.

Education

Raleigh is known for its strong educational system, including several public and private high schools, colleges, and universities. It is home to North Carolina State University, which is the largest university in the state in terms of student enrollment.

Transportation

Raleigh is served by several major highways, including Interstate 40 and Interstate 440. Raleigh-Durham International Airport provides air services to the region. Public transportation includes buses operated by the GoRaleigh and GoTriangle services, which connect Raleigh to surrounding communities.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Raleigh had a diverse population with a significant increase in Hispanic and Asian communities over the past decade. The city has a young demographic, with a large proportion of residents between the ages of 25 and 44.

See also

• List of people from Raleigh, North Carolina
• List of tallest buildings in Raleigh, North Carolina