Nate Sullivan holds a M.A. in History and a M.Ed. He is an adjunct history professor, middle school history teacher, and freelance writer.
Georgia is known for many things. Among other things, it is know for its peaches. If you've ever driven through the state, you may have seen signs for peach stands or peach orchards. There is even a city in the state called Peachtree City. Growing peaches is an important aspect of Georgia's culture, and it is something Georgia is known for. While peaches are believed to have been introduced to Georgia in the 16th century by Franciscan monks, it was after the Civil War that peach growing in Georgia exploded. Cotton production in the American South peaked in the years prior to the Civil War, and as it declined in the years afterwards, peaches emerged as a popular alternative. Peach growing peaked in the 1920s, but interestingly enough, it wasn't until 1995 that the peach became the official state fruit.
Of course, peaches aren't the only thing Georgia is known for. Let's learn about some other aspects of Georgia's culture, and explore what the state is like from a cultural perspective.
Obviously Georgia is in the South. Georgia derives much of its cultural identity from its Southern heritage. Georgia was among the group of states that seceded from the Union in 1861 to form the Confederate States of America. Georgia's role as a ''rebel'' state is a source of pride for many Georgians. Interest in the Civil War is an important part of Georgian culture. Before the Civil War, Georgia was home to many wealthy Southern aristocrats. Southern charm and refinement were expressed through a culture revolving around ''Southern gentlemen.'' Aspects of this culture continue throughout Georgia to this day, especially in the eastern part of the state.
Like other states in the South, agriculture is prominent throughout Georgia. We already mentioned peaches and cotton, but tobacco, pecans, peanuts, corn, and other crops are vital to Georgia's economy. Driving through Georgia, you may also see signs for ''roasted peanuts'' in addition to signs for peach stands. Much of Georgia is rural, but of course, there are major cities like Atlanta, Columbus, Macon, Savannah, and others. Steeped in Southern culture, the way of life throughout Georgia is often considered to be slow and laid-back. Country music is popular, and many Georgians have an interest in firearms. Generally, Georgia is politically conservative. With a few exceptions, it has generally voted Republican in presidential elections.
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As the capital and major city of the state, Atlanta is home to numerous cultural attractions. The Coca-Cola company was founded in Atlanta in the late 19th century, and today the World of Coca-Cola is a popular museum. The city is also home to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, a museum highlighting America's civil rights history. Atlanta was home to the 1996 Summer Olympics. The city's major sports teams include the Atlanta Falcons (NFL), the Atlanta Braves (MLB), and the Atlanta Hawks (NBA). Atlanta is a vibrant cultural center, home to a wide variety of arts and entertainment.
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The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located in Savannah. This museum honors the men of the Eighth Air Force, who played a decisive role in strategic bombing campaigns during World War II. Savannah is a delightful city with a rich history. It played important roles in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Beautiful architecture draws many tourists to Savannah.
The famous book-turned-movie, Gone With the Wind, is based on life in Georgia during the Civil War. The book was written by Atlanta native Margaret Mitchell, and published in 1936. Numerous movies have been filmed in Georgia, including Remember the Titans, Selma, and Blind Side, among others. The well-known TV show The Walking Dead is filmed and based in Georgia. The popular rock band R.E.M is from Athens, Georgia.
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The state offers numerous outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and beach-going. The northern part of the state lies in the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing viewers with beautiful scenery. Georgia's Atlantic coast contains sandy beaches, making it a popular vacation spot.
Georgia is home to many famous people, including some notable African-Americans. Probably the most well-known is Martin Luther King, Jr., the most recognized leader of the Civil Rights Movement. King was born in Atlanta in 1929. African-American baseball player Jackie Robinson was born in Cairo, Georgia in 1919. He went on to play for the Brooklyn Dodgers, becoming the the first African-American to play Major League Baseball. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas is also from Georgia. He is the second African-American to serve on the Supreme Court. Thomas was appointed to the court by President George H. W. Bush, and assumed office in 1991. Former President Jimmy Carter was also from Georgia. He was born in Plains, Georgia in 1924.
Let's review. Remember, Georgia is known for its peaches. This should go without saying. Georgia was among the group of states that seceded from the Union in 1861 to form the Confederate States of America. Because of this, interest in the Civil War is an important part of Georgia culture. Georgia is generally politically conservative. Its capital city, Atlanta is a vibrant cultural center, home to the Coca-Cola company, the 1996 Summer Olympics, and hosts of other arts and entertainment. The famous book-turned-movie, Gone With the Wind, is based on life in Georgia during the Civil War. Martin Luther King, Jr, the leader of the Civil Rights Movement, and former President Jimmy Carter are both from Georgia.
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GACE Geography (536): Practice & Study Guide34 chapters | 395 lessons | 33 flashcard sets
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