State Abbreviation: IL

Capital: Springfield

Name Origin: The name Illinois comes from the Native American tribe living on the land when the area was first explored by Europeans.

Nickname: Prairie State

Statehood: December 3, 1818 (21st State)

State Motto: State sovereignty, national union

French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet made their historic visit to the region in 1673, marking the first recorded European presence. In 1699, French settlers established the inaugural permanent settlement near present-day East St. Louis at Cahokia. The end of the French and Indian Wars in 1763 resulted in Great Britain gaining control of the area. Throughout the Revolutionary War and the early 19th century, the region played a significant role in frontier struggles and conflicts with Native American tribes.

Several notable events shaped the early history of Illinois, including the influx of settlers following the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825, the conclusion of the Black Hawk War that quelled Native American troubles, and the remarkable ascent of Abraham Lincoln from farm laborer to president.

Today, Illinois excels in manufacturing, coal mining, agriculture, and oil production. The state's manufacturing sector encompasses food and agricultural products, transportation equipment, chemicals, industrial machinery, and computer equipment. The sprawling Chicago district, which extends into Indiana, holds prominence as a major hub for iron and steel production, meatpacking, grain exchanges, and railroads. Chicago is also renowned as a significant port on the Great Lakes.

Illinois ranks among the leading producers of soybeans, corn, and hogs. Other agricultural commodities include cattle, wheat, oats, sorghum, and hay.

Central Illinois is home to numerous shrines and memorials associated with Abraham Lincoln's life. In Springfield, visitors can explore the Lincoln Home, Lincoln Tomb, and the meticulously restored Old State Capitol. Other points of interest include the historic home of Mormon leader Joseph Smith in Nauvoo and in Chicago: the Art Institute, Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, Merchandise Mart, and Chicago Portage National Historic Site.

Tragically, on February 14, 2008, a former graduate student named Stephen Kazmierczak opened fire in a classroom on the campus of Northern Illinois University, resulting in 18 casualties and six fatalities, including the perpetrator.

Rod Blagojevich, the first Democrat to be elected governor in 30 years, faced legal troubles when he was arrested on December 9, 2008, and subsequently impeached on January 9, 2009, on corruption charges. Blagojevich began serving a fourteen-year prison sentence on March 15, 2012.

In 2011, the final episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show, the longest-running talk show in television history, aired in Chicago, Oprah Winfrey's beloved adopted hometown. The show had a remarkable 25-year run, accumulating numerous accolades along the way.

• The state’s official snack food is popcorn, which can be served Chicago-style—that’s a mixture of cheese-covered and caramel-covered popcorn!
  
• Famous folks from Illinois include Hillary Clinton, U.S. representative and civil rights activist Carol Moseley Braun, First Lady Michelle Obama, and women’s rights activist Betty Friedan.
  
• Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry contains the world’s largest pinball machine and a miniature castle.
  
• Illinois’ slogan is the Land of Lincoln because Abraham Lincoln lived there for 31 years. Today visitors can see Lincoln’s home and his tomb in Springfield.

1. Explore Chicago: Visit the vibrant city of Chicago and experience its iconic landmarks, such as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Take in breathtaking views from Willis Tower Skydeck or enjoy a cruise along the Chicago River. Immerse yourself in the city's diverse neighborhoods, renowned culinary scene, and world-class museums.
2. Discover Route 66: Embark on a road trip along the historic Route 66, which stretches across Illinois. Drive through charming small towns, visit vintage diners and roadside attractions, and soak in the nostalgia of this legendary highway. Don't miss the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, which showcases the history and memorabilia of this iconic route.
3. Explore Starved Rock State Park: Venture outside the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Starved Rock State Park. Located along the Illinois River, this park offers stunning canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, picnicking, and birdwatching in this scenic oasis.
4. Visit Abraham Lincoln's Home: Step back in time and visit the historic home of Abraham Lincoln in Springfield. Explore the preserved neighborhood where Lincoln lived before becoming president and tour his family home, which provides insights into his personal life and political career. Nearby, you can also visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to learn more about this influential figure in American history.
5. Experience Frank Lloyd Wright's Architecture: Illinois is home to several architectural masterpieces designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of America's greatest architects. Visit Oak Park, where you can explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, or head to the suburb of Riverside to admire the awe-inspiring architecture of the Frederick C. Robie House. These structures showcase Wright's innovative designs and his impact on modern architecture.