THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA

One of the thirteen original colonies, South Carolina has had a rich and varied history. In 1670, a permanent English settlement was established on the coast near present day Charleston. The colony, named Carolina after King Charles I, was divided in 1710 into South Carolina and North Carolina. By the time of the American Revolution, South Carolina was one of the richest colonies in America. South Carolina seceded from the union on December 20, 1860, the first of the Southern states to do so. The Civil War and its aftermath were devastating for South Carolina. The Reconstruction period was marked by general economic, social, and political upheaval. By the beginning of the 20th century, South Carolina was starting to recover economically. The state flag of South Carolina was officially adopted in 1861. It has a white crescent moon and palmetto tree on a blue ground. Here is a map of the state. 

Discover South Carolina - The website of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. Our state parks offer experiences in diverse settings that range from scenic mountaintops to quiet, inland lakes.  

South Carolina Government - The state government's official website. 

South Carolina State House - The South Carolina State House was described by architect Charles C. Wilson of Columbia as “one of the most notable buildings of the world.” 

South Carolina Legislature Online - Information on the three branches of South Carolina's government. 

South Carolina State Library - The South Carolina State Library's mission is to improve library services throughout the state and to ensure all citizens access to libraries and information resources adequate to meet their needs. 

South Carolina Historical Society - The South Carolina Historical Society (SCHS) is a private, non-profit membership-driven organization founded in 1855. The SCHS is dedicated to the preservation of history.

South Carolina Demographics - From the U.S. Census Bureau.  

South Carolina Wiki - Information about the state on Wikipedia.