- **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)]]:** June 25, 1788 (10th state to ratify the Constitution) - **Population (2025):** 8.7 million - **GDP (2025):** $713 billion - **Largest City:** Virginia Beach (454,000) - **State Capital:** Richmond (231,000) - **Historical Note:** Known as the "Mother of Presidents" (birthplace of 8 U.S. presidents including [[George Washington]] and [[Thomas Jefferson]]) and "Mother of States" (parts became 8 other states). Site of first permanent English settlement (Jamestown, 1607), played leading role in American Revolution, and served as heart of the Confederacy during Civil War. Home to more U.S. history than any other state.