Florida (U.S. state)
Florida is a state of the United States, located in the extreme southeast part of that country. Geographically, Florida is a peninsula largely surrounded by water. The eastern coast borders the Atlantic Ocean, while the western coast touches the Gulf of Mexico. Both coasts represent the longest U.S. coastlines on those respective bodies of water. To the north, Florida is bordered by a succession of southern states, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. The capital of Florida is Tallahassee, while the largest city by population is Jacksonville. Other significant locations in Florida include the cities of Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, which is home of the Walt Disney World complex of resorts and theme parks.
History
Prior to American acquisition, Florida was controlled by Spain. In 1845 it became a state of the United States. During the American Civil War, Florida seceded and joined the Confederate States of America but was regained by the Union after the war.
Politics
As a Southern state, Florida's politics is generally dominated by conservatives. The current governor is Charles Crist, a member of the Republican Party.