New Jersey is named after the island of Jersey in the English Channel. The first state to ratify the Bill of Rights in 1789, New Jersey is called 'The Garden State' in reference to early truck farms that provide floral and agricultural produce to New York and Philadelphia metropolitan areas.

The industrialized New Jersey started as a site for a model factory town in 1791. Canals, ports, railroads, and roads were built throughout the 19th century and assembled a highly aggressive industrial state. Modern New Jersey remains to be one of the leading industrial states in the country despite being the fourth smallest and most densely populated U.S state.

The state capital is Trenton. Prominent geographic features in New Jersey include Delaware Water Gap, Musconetcong River, New Jersey Meadowlands, The Palisades, Passaic River, Pine Barrens, Rancocas River, Raritan River, Sandy Hook, and South Mountain.

New Jersey is the site of Six Flags Great Adventure, one of the largest theme parks in the world where the largest wild safari out of Africa and the world's tallest and fastest coaster – the Kingda Ka, are situated. New Jersey holds the 'Bridgeton Folk Festival' and the 'Toms Riverfest', designated as two of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2006 by The American Bus Association.

Interestingly enough, the film industry first reeled in New Jersey. The state is home to Thomas Edison and his Black Maria Studio. Also, the legendary Frank Sinatra was born in Hoboken to Italian-American immigrants. A neighborhood vocal group called 'Hoboken Four' as well as local theater amateur shows nurtured his talents.

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