Delaware

The First State

Official flag of Delaware
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Quick Stats

1.0MPopulation
#45Rank
1787Joined
1.9kArea (mi²)

Map

Map of Delaware

Seal & Motto

State seal of Delaware

"Liberty and Independence"

Additional Information

AbbreviationDE
Motto Origin

Reflects the state's Revolutionary values.

Adopted 1847/1787.

Official WebsiteDelaware.gov

Population Growth

Overview

Delaware, proudly known as the "First State," is a coastal Mid-Atlantic powerhouse that punches far above its weight. Despite its small size, it is a global epicenter for corporate law and finance, offering a unique blend of historic colonial charm, pristine Atlantic beaches, and a business-friendly environment that attracts over half of all Fortune 500 companies.

Historical Significance

Delaware officially joined the Union on December 7, 1787, as the very first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Its historical legacy is deeply tied to its role as a strategic Revolutionary pillar, its early Dutch and Swedish settlements, and the legendary Caesar Rodney's midnight ride that secured a crucial vote for American independence.

Top Cities & Hubs

1

Wilmington

Population: ~70,000

The state's largest city and a massive national hub for the credit card and banking industries, featuring a beautifully revitalized riverfront and a deep-rooted corporate and maritime history.

2

Dover

Population: ~38,000

The state capital and a center for both government and high-speed excitement, home to the historic Delaware General Assembly and the world-famous Dover Motor Speedway NASCAR track.

3

Newark

Population: ~31,000

A thriving academic and technological center, home to the University of Delaware and known for its vibrant Main Street and innovative research parks.

4

Middletown

Population: ~24,000

One of the fastest-growing communities in the state, this historic town has transformed from an agricultural center into a significant residential and commercial hub.

5

Smyrna

Population: ~13,000

A historic town undergoing a major residential boom, located centrally between Dover and Wilmington and celebrated for its charming downtown and historic preservation efforts.

Neighbors

PennsylvaniaNew JerseyMaryland

Region: South

Capital: Dover

Key Landmarks & Economy

Rehoboth Beach: Known as the "Nation's Summer Capital," this iconic resort town features a classic boardwalk and is a premier Mid-Atlantic vacation destination.
The Winterthur Museum: A world-class estate and garden founded by the du Pont family, housing one of the most significant collections of American decorative arts.
Corporate Legal Hub: Delaware is famously the legal home for over 1.5 million businesses due to its Court of Chancery, the nation's premier business court.

Did You Know?

  • Delaware is famously tax-free for shopping, making it a massive destination for retail tourists from all over the East Coast.
  • The state is so small that it only has three counties (New Castle, Kent, and Sussex), the fewest of any U.S. state.
  • The first beauty contest in the United States was reportedly held in Rehoboth Beach in the year 1880 as a summer promotion.

Demographics