Ohio is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is bordered by Michigan and Lake Erie to the north, Pennsylvania to the east, West Virginia to the southeast, Kentucky to the southwest, and Indiana to the west.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the estimated population of Ohio in 2020 was 11,693,498.
The capital of Ohio is Columbus, and the estimated population of Columbus in 2020 was 898,553.
The most populous city in Ohio is Columbus, followed by Cleveland with an estimated population of 372,624 in 2020.
Ohio has a rich and varied history, shaped by its geography, its role as a gateway to the west, and the contributions of diverse groups of people over time.
Indigenous People: The area that is now Ohio was originally inhabited by various indigenous peoples, including the Hopewell and Adena cultures, which flourished between 800 BC and 400 AD, and later the Iroquois and Wyandot tribes.
European Exploration and Settlement: The first European to explore the region was the French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, who arrived in the late 17th century. The area was later claimed by the British, who established a number of settlements and forts. The first permanent European settlement in Ohio was founded in 1788 in what is now Cincinnati.
Statehood and Modern Era: Ohio was admitted to the Union as the 17th state in 1803. Throughout the 19th century, Ohio played a key role in the westward expansion of the United States, serving as a gateway to the western territories and as a center of manufacturing, transportation, and trade.
In the 20th century, Ohio continued to be a major center of industry and commerce, particularly in the areas of steel production, automotive manufacturing, and aerospace technology. Today, Ohio is known for its diverse economy, its rich cultural heritage, and its many natural and recreational attractions.
Throughout its history, Ohio has been shaped by the contributions of diverse groups of people, including European settlers, African Americans, Native Americans, and immigrants from around the world. Today, Ohio is home to a rich mix of cultures, traditions, and communities, reflecting its unique place in the history and culture of the United States