- **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)]]:** July 26, 1788 (11th state to ratify the Constitution) - **Population (2025):** 20.0 million - **GDP (2025):** $2.3 trillion - **Largest City:** New York City (8.3 million) - **State Capital:** Albany (103,000) - **Historical Note:** Known as the "Empire State," gateway to America through Ellis Island immigration station. Financial capital of the world (Wall Street), cultural center (Broadway, museums), and most populous city in the U.S. Erie Canal connected Great Lakes to Atlantic, spurring westward expansion. Statue of Liberty symbol of freedom.