Date of Independence: July 4, 1776 (as part of the original 13 colonies declaring independence from Britain) Date of Annexation to [[United States of America (USA)]]: December 14, 1819 (22nd state to join the Union) Population (2025): 5.14 million GDP (2025): $245 billion Largest City: Huntsville (232,000) State Capital: Montgomery (192,000) Historical Note: Known as the "Yellowhammer State" and "Heart of Dixie." Birthplace of civil rights movement with Montgomery Bus Boycott and Selma marches. Major role in space program (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville). Strong automotive manufacturing presence with Mercedes, Honda, and Hyundai plants.