California is by far the
most populous U.S. state, and the third most extensive. It is
home to the nation's 2nd and 6th largest census statistical
areas. The capital city is Sacramento. California's diverse
geography ranges from the Pacific Coast in the west, to the
Sierra Nevada mountains in the east – from the
Redwood–Douglas-fir forests of the northwest, to the Mojave
Desert areas in the southeast. The center of the state is
dominated by Central Valley, a major agricultural area.
California contains both the highest and lowest points in the
contiguous United States, and has the 3rd longest coastline of
all states. The California Gold Rush beginning in 1848 led to
dramatic social and demographic change, with large scale
immigration from the U.S. and abroad and an accompanying economic
boom. Key developments in the early 20th century included the
emergence of Los Angeles as the center of the American
entertainment industry, and the growth of a large, state-wide
tourism sector. The late 20th century saw the development of the
technology and information sectors, punctuated by the growth of
Silicon Valley. California's prosperous agricultural industry
also emerged; at least half of the fresh fruit produced in the
United States are now cultivated in California, and the state
also leads in the production of vegetables. Other important
contributors to its economy include aerospace, education, and
manufacturing. If California were a country, it would have the
8th largest economy in the world and it would be the 34th most
populous nation.
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