Tucson
Tucson, Arizona, is a large, sprawling, rapidly growing, and highly ethnically-diverse city in the Sonoran Desert in the southwest of the United States. As of 2000 the population was 486,699 [1] and the city was the 30th largest in the United States. [2] Because of its mild winter climate, it also attracts a large population of winter visitors, called by the locals "snowbirds".
Tucson boasts a lively cultural heritage, beautiful mountains, arts centers, and an international airport. The University of Arizona is headquartered in Tucson, which perhaps contributes to the area's politically liberal tendencies. In a traditionally Republican state, Tucson almost always supports Democratic candidates.
History
Tucson was first settled by American Indians. The earliest European settlement in the area was by Spanish missionaries at the close of the 17th Century; the Spanish government established a fort in what is now Tucson early in the 18th Century.
Local government
Tucson is governed by a mayor and council. The present mayor of Tucson is Bob Walkup, now serving his third term of office.
Arts and attractions
- Arizona Opera Company
- Arizona Theatre Company
- Ballet Arizona
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Ballet Arizona
- Conrad Wilde Gallery
- Old Tucson
- Tucson Museum of Art
- Tucson Rodeo Parade & Parade Museum