Alabama, with a population of nearly 4.6 million, is bordered by Tennessee to the north, Mississippi to the west, Georgia to the east , and the state of Florida to the south . Alabama became the 22nd state to join the United States.
The name of the capital is Montgomerie. Alabama is 70% White, 26% Black, 2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.5% Asian American, and 0.5% Native American.
The state of Alabama
The flag of Alabama is said to be based on the Confederate flag of war. Incidentally, the 22nd state is said to have received its name from the Indian words “Alba” (wild growth) and “Amo” (collector).
The ten largest cities
Population figures are from the year 2010, in which a census was carried out, and are rounded.
- Birmingham 212,000
- Montgomery 206,000
- Mobile 195,000
- Huntsville 180,000
- Tuscaloosa 90,000
- Hoover 82,000
- Dothan 65,000
- Decatur 56,000
- Auburn 53,000
- Madison 43,000
Large parts of Alabama are covered with forest. Sandy soils can also be found towards the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. The severe hurricanes of the past were mainly between the end of July and October.
Most recently, Hurricane Kathrina stormed across parts of Alabama in August 2005 at speeds of up to 280 km/h.
The climate in Alabama
Orange Beach in Alabama
Mild winters and hot summers characterize the climate in large parts of Alabama.
The Gulf Coast region is similar to Florida in that it is humid and subtropical.
Florida is also known as the Sunshine State . Alabama could then probably be referred to as the Rainy State .
But due to the subtropical climate and the warm temperatures of often over 35 degrees in summer, the rain is more welcome than, like in London, a miserable mixture of downpour from the watering cans, wafts of fog and cold showers.
In winter, temperatures are mostly above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, except for a few peaks, you don’t need a great heating system in Alabama.
Best travel time
The best travel time for Alabama for Europeans is probably the mild spring and autumn. If you want to be on the safe side, don’t visit the coastal region of Alabama from late March to September.
In recent years, there have been an increasing number of hurricanes in these months, some of which have caused significant and severe damage. At the beginning of March 2012, two Twisters swept through northeastern Alamaba, causing damage in Madison and Limestone County, among other places.
Major Sights in Alabama
Alabama, known as the Heart of Dixie, is a state brimming with historical landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural treasures. From the stirring stories of the civil rights movement to the breathtaking beauty of its landscapes, Alabama offers a plethora of major sights to explore.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Alabama is the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma. This bridge witnessed the pivotal events of Bloody Sunday during the civil rights movement in 1965 when peaceful protesters were violently attacked by state troopers as they marched for voting rights. Today, the bridge stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and the ongoing struggle for equality.
Montgomery, the state capital, is home to several significant historical sites. See list of municipalities in Alabama. The Alabama State Capitol, where Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as the president of the Confederate States of America, stands as a reminder of the state’s role in the Civil War. Nearby, the Rosa Parks Museum commemorates the courageous act of Rosa Parks, whose refusal to give up her seat on a bus sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and ignited the civil rights movement.
For those interested in space exploration, Huntsville is a must-visit destination. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center houses an impressive collection of artifacts from America’s space program, including rockets, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can also experience the thrill of space travel through simulators and outdoor displays, making it a fascinating destination for all ages.
Natural wonders abound in Alabama, with the Gulf Shores offering pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters along the coastline. Gulf State Park boasts miles of hiking trails, camping facilities, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Nearby, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge provides sanctuary for endangered species and is a haven for nature lovers.
In Birmingham, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute offers a comprehensive look at the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement. Exhibits chronicle the history of segregation, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, and the Freedom Rides, providing insight into the individuals who fought for justice and equality.
Alabama’s rich musical heritage is celebrated in Muscle Shoals, where the Fame Recording Studios and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio have welcomed legendary musicians such as Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, and The Rolling Stones. Visitors can tour these historic studios and learn about the impact of Muscle Shoals on the global music scene.