- **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 7, 1787 (1st state to ratify the Constitution) - **Population (2025):** 1.05 million - **GDP (2025):** $79.7 billion - **Largest City:** Wilmington (72,000) - **State Capital:** Dover (40,000) - **Historical Note:** Known as the "First State" and "Diamond State." Founded as New Sweden, later Dutch New Netherland, then English colony. First state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Major role as corporate haven with business-friendly laws. Home to DuPont company headquarters. Home state of President [[Joe Biden]]. Strategic location in Mid-Atlantic corridor between major cities.