- **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)]]:** March 3, 1845 (27th state to join the Union) - **Population (2025):** 23.84 million - **GDP (2025):** $1.207 trillion - **Largest City:** Jacksonville (986,000) - **State Capital:** Tallahassee (200,000) - **Historical Note:** Known as the "Sunshine State." Originally Spanish colony, purchased by U.S. in 1819. Major tourism destination with Disney World, Everglades, and beaches. No state income tax. Major aerospace industry and retiree destination. Rapid population growth from migration.