Commonwealth of Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with about six and a half million people, is a predominantly urban state and one of the most densely populated states in the nation. It is located on the eastern coast of the United States, bordered by New York on the west, Vermont and New Hampshire to the north, Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. High-technology industries, finance, banking, tourism, and higher education are all important to the Massachusetts economy.
Massachusetts is famous for its historical landmarks, cultural activities, recreation centers, and institutes of higher education, which enrich the lives of Massachusetts residents and bring tourists to the area. Historical attractions include the Freedom Trail, the USS Constitution, Minuteman National Historical Park, Plymouth Colony, Old Sturbridge Village, and the John F. Kennedy Library. Massachusetts is home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and many museums, theaters, and other cultural activities. In the summer, tourists and residents alike flock to the Cape Cod National Seashore, while the Berkshires and state parks and forests offer year-round recreation. Massachusetts is often called the "capital of higher education," being home to Harvard University, MIT, Amherst College, Smith College, and over 100 other private and public institutions of higher education.
Massachusetts has played an important role in American history since 1620, when the Pilgrims founded Plymouth Colony. Its population has increased steadily, especially after the Civil War when rapid industrialization attracted tens of thousands of European immigrants to the state. Massachusetts today has a diverse population from many national backgrounds, and many communities within the state have strong ethnic identities. Boston is the capital and largest city in the state. Other large urban communities within Massachusetts include Worcester, Springfield, Brockton, Lowell, New Bedford, Cambridge, Fall River, and Quincy.
For more information, visit Mass.Gov - Official web site of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
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