Vermont

State in the northeastern United States

Coat of arms of Vermont

Vermont is a state in the New England region of the United States. It is bordered by Massachusetts to the south, New Hampshire to the east, New York to the west, and the Canadian province of Quebec to the north. Vermont is the second-least-populated U.S. state and the sixth-smallest by area.

History

Pre-Colonial and Colonial Era

Abenaki people

The area now known as Vermont was originally inhabited by the Abenaki and Mohican tribes. The Abenaki, part of the larger Algonquian language family, were the primary indigenous people in the region.

In the early 17th century, French explorer Samuel de Champlain claimed the area for France. The region was part of the French colony of New France until 1763, when it was ceded to Great Britain after the French and Indian War.

Revolutionary Period

Green Mountain Boys Flag

During the American Revolutionary War, Vermont was a hotbed of revolutionary activity. The Green Mountain Boys, led by Ethan Allen, were instrumental in capturing Fort Ticonderoga in 1775. Vermont declared its independence from New York and New Hampshire in 1777, becoming the Vermont Republic, which lasted until 1791.

Statehood

Constitution House, Windsor

In 1791, Vermont was admitted to the Union as the 14th state. The Vermont Constitution, adopted in 1777, was the first in the United States to prohibit slavery and to grant universal male suffrage.

Vermont Admission Act

The Vermont Admission Act was signed by President George Washington, officially making Vermont a state on March 4, 1791.

Geography

Map of Vermont

Vermont is known for its natural landscape, which is primarily forested. The Green Mountains run north-south through the state, and the Connecticut River forms the eastern border with New Hampshire. The state is also home to Lake Champlain, which forms part of the western border with New York.

Economy

Vermont's economy is largely based on agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The state is famous for its dairy farming, particularly the production of cheese and maple syrup. Vermont is also known for its craft beer industry and skiing resorts.

Demographics

Vermont has a population of approximately 643,000 people, making it the second-least-populated state in the U.S. The largest city is Burlington, which is home to the University of Vermont.

Government

Vermont State House

Vermont's government is based in Montpelier, the state capital. The Vermont State House is the seat of the Vermont General Assembly, which consists of the Vermont House of Representatives and the Vermont Senate.

Culture

Vermont is known for its strong sense of community and local culture. The state has a rich tradition of folk music, crafts, and literature. Vermont is also home to several annual festivals, including the Vermont Maple Festival and the Stowe Winter Carnival.

Related pages

• New England
• Green Mountains
• Lake Champlain
• Burlington, Vermont