Students research the state of Pennsylvania in order to complete this worksheet.
Click here to print. Students' answers will vary.
Pennsylvania is a state with a rich mix of history, industry, and things to do. Tourism is a huge economic driver. In 2024, the state welcomed over 206 million visitors who spent $51.6 billion, supporting more than 521,000 jobs. People flock to Philadelphia for the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, to Gettysburg for its famous battlefield, and to the Poconos for outdoor adventures. The state's 124 free state parks also drew nearly 25 million visitors in a single summer.
Historically, Pennsylvania is known as the "Keystone State" because of its central role in early America. Founded by William Penn in 1681 as a place for religious freedom, it was where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed. The state was also a major industrial power, built on steel and coal. Today, its economy is more diverse. It is a national leader in natural gas production, ranking second in the country. Manufacturing remains important, and the state is famous for food brands like Hershey's and Heinz. With major employers in healthcare, education, and logistics, Pennsylvania continues to be a key player in the U.S. economy.
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