Kentucky: The Bluegrass State

Kentucky is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is known for its beautiful countryside, horse racing, bourbon distilleries, and southern hospitality. The state's nickname is "The Bluegrass State" due to the bluegrass found in many of its pastures.

History

Kentucky was originally part of Virginia, but it became the 15th state to join the Union on June 1, 1792. It played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States and was a border state during the Civil War, with divided loyalties between the Union and the Confederacy.

Geography

Kentucky is bordered by seven states: Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, and Missouri. The state is known for its diverse geography, including the Appalachian Mountains in the east and the Mississippi River in the west. The capital city is Frankfort, and the largest city is Louisville.

Economy

Kentucky's economy is diverse, with a focus on agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The state is famous for its thoroughbred horse racing and breeding industry, as well as its production of bourbon whiskey. It is also a leading producer of coal, and manufacturing industries include automotive, aerospace, and food processing.

Government

The state government of Kentucky is divided into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. The governor is the head of the executive branch, and the General Assembly makes up the legislative branch. The highest court in the state is the Kentucky Supreme Court.

Study Guide

When did Kentucky become a state?
What is Kentucky's nickname and how did it earn this nickname?
Which states border Kentucky?
What are some key industries in Kentucky's economy?
Describe the state government structure of Kentucky.

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Fifth Grade. Westward Expansion

The resources above cover the following skills:

National Standards for Civics and Government (NSCG)

What are the foundations of the American political system? What are the distinctive characteristics of American society?

Distinctive characteristics of American society. Students should be able to identify and explain the importance of historical experience and geographic, social, and economic factors that have helped to shape American society. To achieve this standard, students should be able to

Explain important factors that have helped shape American society

Effects of a frontier

National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)

Historical Thinking Standards

Historical Comprehension

Reconstruct the literal meaning of a historical passage.

United States History Content Standards

Era 4: Expansion and Reform (1801-1861)

United States territorial expansion between 1801 and 1861, and how it affected relations with external powers and Native Americans.

The student understands the international background and consequences of the Louisiana Purchase, the War of 1812, and the Monroe Doctrine.

The student understands the ideology of Manifest Destiny, the nation's expansion to the Northwest, and the Mexican-American War.

How the industrial revolution, increasing immigration, the rapid expansion of slavery, and the westward movement changed the lives of Americans and led toward regional tensions.

The student understands the settlement of the West.

Era 6: The Development of the Industrial United States (1870-1900)

How the rise of corporations, heavy industry, and mechanized farming transformed the American people.

The student understands how agriculture, mining, and ranching were transformed.