The state's name comes from its original inhabitants, the Delaware Indians (also known as the Lenni-Lenape). Delaware was the first of the original 13 states of the Union. It's often called the "First" or "Diamond State" because it was the first state in 1787 to approve the United States Constitution. William Penn acquired the land that makes up Delaware to keep his Pennsylvania colony from being landlocked. Today, Delaware is one of the most industrialized states, known for its chemical research. Lying along the Atlantic coastline, most of Delaware lies in a low, flat coastal plain. The rolling hills and valleys of the Piedmont region cover the northern tip of the state. Delaware's many freshwater lakes and ponds, its ocean beaches and its rivers and streams provide excellent swimming, boating and fishing. Cultural and historical attractions also attract visitors to the state.

GOVERNMENT:
Capital: Dover
Governor: Ruth Ann Minner, D (to Jan. 2005)
Senators: Joseph R. Biden, Jr., D (to Jan. 2009); Thomas R. Carper, D (to Jan. 2007)
House of Representatives: 1 district | Search by zip code

STATISTICS:
Population (July 1, 2001): 796,599; National Rank: 45; Percent change since April 2000: 1.6
Land Area: 1,955 sq mi. (5,153 sq km); National Rank: 49
10 largest cities (2000): Wilmington, 72,664; Dover, 32,135; Newark, 28,547; Milford, 6,732; Seaford, 6,699; Middletown, 6,161; Elsmere, 5,800; Smyrna 5,679; New Castle, 4,862; Georgetown, 4,643

ECONOMY:
Total Gross State Product 1999 (millions of dollars): 34,669; National rank: 42; Percent change since 1990: 71%; National Rank based on Growth Rate: 16 (Including Washington, DC)
Per Capita Personal Income 2001: $31,166; National Rank: 13 (106% of the national average)
State Exports 2001 (millions of dollars): 1,985; National Rank: 41
Agriculture: Poultry, nursery stock, soybeans, dairy products, corn.
Industry: Chemical products, food processing, paper products, rubber and plastic products, scientific instruments, printing and publishing.