Kentucky is a state of horses, caves, rivers, bourbon, basketball, and a frontier history that helped shape the nation.
15 Essential Facts About Kentucky
1. Kentucky became the 15th state on June 1, 1792.
Kentucky became the 15th state on June 1, 1792.
2. Frankfort is the capital and Louisville is the largest city.
Frankfort is the capital and Louisville is the largest city.
3. The Bluegrass State nickname reflects a distinctive grass, not a blue lawn.
The Bluegrass State nickname reflects a distinctive grass, not a blue lawn.
4. Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest known cave system.
Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest known cave system.
5. The Kentucky Derby is held annually in Louisville.
The Kentucky Derby is held annually in Louisville.
6. Bourbon whiskey is deeply tied to Kentucky history and economy.
Bourbon whiskey is deeply tied to Kentucky history and economy.
7. The Ohio River forms much of the northern border.
The Ohio River forms much of the northern border.
8. The state motto is United We Stand, Divided We Fall.
The state motto is United We Stand, Divided We Fall.
9. Abraham Lincoln was born in Kentucky.
Abraham Lincoln was born in Kentucky.
10. Daniel Boone helped popularize Kentucky’s frontier story.
Daniel Boone helped popularize Kentucky’s frontier story.
11. The Appalachian region shapes eastern Kentucky.
The Appalachian region shapes eastern Kentucky.
12. The state is known for horse breeding and racing.
The state is known for horse breeding and racing.
13. Kentucky’s rivers and karst landscape create countless caves and springs.
Kentucky’s rivers and karst landscape create countless caves and springs.
14. Basketball is a major cultural tradition.
Basketball is a major cultural tradition.
15. Kentucky connects Southern, Appalachian, and Midwestern histories.
Kentucky connects Southern, Appalachian, and Midwestern histories.