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The Grand Coulee Dam, largest in the
United States, was the last of a series of hydroelectric dams built on the Columbia River thus assuring abundant power for the area. Washington has over 1,000 dams built for power, flood control, irrigation and water storage.
The economy of the eastern part of the state is based primarily on crops, livestock and dairy products. The Yakima Valley is known for apples, growing more than any other place in the United States.
Recent Washington History
In World Wars I and II heavy industry developed in the
Puget Sound area. The Boeing Company became a major supplier of aircraft for the war effort. In addition several Washington ports manufactured warships.
In 1962
Seattle hosted the first World's Fair since World War II and it was heralded for futuristic concepts. The
Space Needle, (607 ft. high) built during that fair, is a popular
Washington vacation destination. In recent times, Seattle has become a major computer software center, and the home base of numerous industry leaders and spin off companies.
In 1980 Mount St. Helens, a volcano near the Oregon border, erupted and captured national attention.
With breathtaking scenery, natural and cultural attractions,
Washington draws visitors from all over the world. Mt. Rainier (at 14,410 ft.) symbolizes that state's beauty. The vibrant city of
Seattle has a booming economy and has developed a unique youth culture. Washington ranks 14th in population in the nation, with just over 6 million people.
Washington State Today
Bordered by
Canada to the north,
Oregon to the south,
Idaho to the east and the
Pacific Ocean to the west, Washington is a land of vast natural beauty.
Fronted by a rugged coastline, and dissected by the Cascade Mountains, the state contains numerous wonders of nature including the Columbia River Gorge, Glacier Peak Wilderness, Olympic National Forest and the beautiful bays and islands of Puget Sound. Combined, they offer an incredible collection of
vacation attractions for the outdoorsman.
As a leading agricultural state, Washington boasts the Chelan, Yakima and Wenatchee valleys, fertile swatches of land that produce the world famous Washington apples. In addition, it has a sound jet aircraft economy (Boeing), and four of the 20 Most Admired Companies in the U.S. have a strong local presence, and they are Costco, Microsoft, Nordstrom and Starbucks.
Washington Cities and People
The state's lively
cities attract visitors by the millions, and Seattle, famous for its waterfront vistas, and so much more, is a major attraction in the Pacific Northwest. Olympia,
Spokane, Yakima and Walla Walla are some of the best loved cities within its borders.
As one of the most diverse states in
America, the
Evergreen State is a diverse and multicultural place.
Famous Washington natives include such notables as billionaire and co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates; founder of Starbucks, Gordon Bowker; guitarist Jimi Hendrix; and actor Bing Crosby. Gorgeous landscapes and booming cities mean that
Washington travel will be an unforgettable experience.
