Florida: State Unit Study

We spent a few years in Florida while my husband went to school and we were able to have a lot of fun. From walking through orange groves to hitting the water park on Christmas eve we had a lot of opportunities to explore.

Florida is located in the southeastern region of the United States, bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the state of Georgia to the north. The state capital is Tallahassee, and the largest city is Jacksonville.

Basic facts about Florida

:: Florida is a state located in the southeastern United States

:: Its capital is Tallahassee and its largest city is Jacksonville

:: Florida is known as the “Sunshine State”

:: The state flower is the orange blossom

:: The state bird is the northern mockingbird

:: The state tree is the sabal palm

:: The economy of Florida is largely based on tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing

:: Florida is home to many famous attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Kennedy Space Center

:: Florida has a diverse population, with many retirees and a large Hispanic community

:: The population of Florida is approximately 21 million people

:: Florida is bordered by Alabama, Georgia, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Gulf of Mexico.

Fun facts about Florida

:: Florida is known as the “Lightning Capital of the United States” due to the frequent thunderstorms and lightning strikes.

:: Florida is home to the world’s largest alligator population.

:: The world’s first commercial airline flight took place in 1914 in Florida

:: The first McDonald’s restaurant opened in Miami, Florida in 1954

:: The Everglades National Park in Florida is the only place in the world where both American alligators and crocodiles can be found.

:: Florida is the only state in the continental United States that has a tropical climate.

:: Florida’s beaches are some of the most popular in the world, and the state has more than 8,000 miles of coastline

:: The Florida Keys, a chain of islands located off the southern coast of Florida, is home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

:: Florida is the home to many theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

:: Florida is the largest citrus-producing state in the United States.

:: Florida is the only state to have two rivers with the same name, the Withlacoochee River which runs through the northern part of the state and the Withlacoochee River which runs through the southern part of the state

:: Florida is the home of the first underwater archaeological park in the United States, in the Dry Tortugas National Park.

Videos for your Florida Unit Study

Geography and Climate

Location and boundaries

Florida is located in the southeastern region of the United States, bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the state of Georgia to the north.

Physical features

The state is known for its long coastline and beaches, as well as the Everglades, a vast wetlands region and a unique ecosystem. The state is also home to many lakes, rivers, and swamps.

Climate and weather patterns

History

Native American tribes and early explorers

Florida was originally home to many Native American tribes, including the Seminole, Timucua, and Calusa. The first European explorer to visit Florida was the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León in 1513.

European colonization and the state’s role in American history

Florida became a Spanish colony in 1565 and was ceded to the United States in 1821. The state played a significant role in the Civil War and was a major destination for tourism and retirement.

Key events and figures in the state’s history

Some key events in Florida’s history include the arrival of Spanish explorers, the Seminole Wars, and the Space Race. Notable figures from Florida include Walt Disney, Ernest Hemingway and Michael Jackson.

People and Economy

Major industries and economic drivers

Tourism is a major industry in Florida, with the state being a popular destination for vacationers and retirees. The state also has a large agriculture and transportation industries.

Demographics and population trends

Florida has a population of approximately 21 million people and is considered a diverse state. The state has a large retired population, as well as a significant Hispanic population, especially in Miami and other South Florida cities.

Culture and Society

Overview of the state’s culture and traditions

Florida is known for its diverse culture, reflecting its history as a melting pot of various ethnicities and nationalities. The state is also known for its strong tourism and retirement culture.

Famous people and landmarks from the state

Notable figures from Florida include Walt Disney, Ernest Hemingway, Michael Jackson, and Tom Petty. Landmarks include the Kennedy Space Center, Disney World, and the Everglades National Park.

Arts and entertainment scene in the state

Florida has a thriving arts and entertainment scene, with major cities like Miami, Orlando, and Jacksonville hosting a variety of music, theater, and dance events.