Guide Note

Alabama is a state in the southern region of the United States. It is bordered by Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida, with a portion of the state bordered by the Gulf of Mexico. In 1819, Alabama became the 22nd state to join the Union.

Fast Facts

1. Capital: Montgomery
2. Governor: Bob Riley
3. Population: 4,599,030
4. Became a state: December 14, 1819
5. Time zones: Central
6. Major cities: Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile
7. Official state items: Yellowhammer (bird), Camellia (flower), Southern Pine (tree), Black Bear (animal), Tarpon (salt water fish), Large Mouth Bass (fresh water fish), Star Blue Quartz (gem)
8. Nickname: No official nickname, but commonly called “the Heart of Dixie”
9. Slogans: Share the wonder, Alabama the beautiful, and Where America finds its voice

Alabama was an important state throughout the American Civil Rights Movement. The first of many nonviolent protests took place in Alabama, including Rosa Parks' bus boycott in the state capital of Montgomery. As well, civil rights leader Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. lived in Montgomery for the latter portion of his life.