State of Florida
Nicknames: The Sunshine State
Motto(s): In God We Trust
Date of Statehood: March 3, 1845 (27th state)
State Song: “Old Folks at Home (Swanee River)” by Stephen Foster
Florida Flag History
The flag of Florida, adopted officially on November 6, 1900, features a red diagonal cross on a white field, known as the St. Andrew’s cross, with the state seal at the center. The seal depicts a Seminole woman scattering flowers, a steamboat sailing, and a tropical landscape, symbolizing Florida’s native population, economic vitality, and lush environment.
The design was influenced by the Confederate Battle Flag, reflecting Florida’s history as a member of the Confederacy during the Civil War. However, the symbolism of the flag has evolved to represent the broader heritage and natural beauty of the state.
The adoption of the flag aimed to pay homage to Florida’s history, its indigenous people, and its status as a lush, tropical destination. The red cross is believed to add a bold touch to the otherwise plain white flag, ensuring it is distinctive and easily recognizable. Over time, the flag has become an emblem of Florida’s diverse culture, rich history, and natural allure, representing the state’s commitment to honoring its past while looking towards a bright and inclusive future.
Florida Quick Facts
Capital City: Tallahassee
Abbreviation: FL
Population: Approximately 21.5 million
Region: Southeast
Origin of State Name: Named by explorer Juan Ponce de León, “La Florida” means “Land of Flowers” in Spanish
Sports Teams: Notable teams include Miami Dolphins (NFL), Miami Heat (NBA), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), and more
Bordering States: Georgia, Alabama
Area Codes: Multiple including 305, 321, 352, 407, 561, and others
Highest Point: Britton Hill at 345 feet (105 meters)
Lowest Point: Sea level at the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico
Geography of Florida
Area: 65,758 square miles (170,312 square kilometers), 22nd largest
Land: 53,625 square miles (138,887 square kilometers), 26th largest
Water: 12,133 square miles (31,424 square kilometers), 3rd largest
Coastline: 1,350 miles (2,170 kilometers), 2nd longest
Shoreline: 8,436 miles (13,576 kilometers), including bays and inlets
Largest Cities:
- Jacksonville
- Miami
- Tampa
- Orlando
- St. Petersburg
- Hialeah
- Tallahassee
- Fort Lauderdale
- Port St. Lucie
- Cape Coral
- Pembroke Pines
- Hollywood
- Miramar
- Gainesville
- Coral Springs
National Parks:
- Biscayne National Park
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
Florida State Symbols
Living Insignia
State Bird: Northern Mockingbird
State Animal: Florida Panther
State Amphibian: Barking Tree Frog
State Butterfly: Zebra Longwing
State Fish: Florida Largemouth Bass, Atlantic Sailfish (saltwater)
State Flower: Orange Blossom
State Horse Breed: None
State Insect: Zebra Longwing Butterfly
State Mammal: Florida Panther, Manatee (marine), Dolphin (saltwater)
State Reptile: American Alligator, Loggerhead Turtle (saltwater)
Inanimate Insignia
State Fruit: Orange
State Gemstone: Moonstone
State Soil: Myakka (unofficial)
State Tree: Sabal Palm
State Quarter: Issued in 2004 featuring a Spanish galleon, Sabal palm, and Space Shuttle
State Beverage: Orange Juice
State Colors: Orange and Green
State Dance: Square Dance
State Food: Key Lime Pie
State Fossil: Agatized Coral
State Mineral: None
State Rock: Agatized Coral