New Jersey Teacher Guide

General Facts

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Timeline

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Landmark Postcard

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Fun Facts

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Essential Questions for New Jersey

1. What are some significant events in the history of New Jersey?
2. What are some facts and features that make New Jersey unique?
3. What are some interesting places in New Jersey that people would want to visit?

All About New Jersey

Date of Statehood: December 18, 1787

State Motto: "Liberty and Prosperity"

State Nickname: "The Garden State”

State Bird: Eastern Goldfinch

State Tree: Northern Red Oak

State Flower: Common Meadow Violet

Tourist Attractions: Atlantic City, Liberty State Park, Cape May, Princeton University, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Famous Citizens of New Jersey: Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen, Meryl Streep, Jon Bon Jovi, Buzz Aldrin

Capital City: Trenton

Major Cities: Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Trenton, Edison

Brief History of New Jersey

New Jersey's history begins long before its establishment as one of the original thirteen American colonies. Native American tribes, including the Lenape, occupied the region for thousands of years, living off its fertile lands and abundant resources. European exploration and settlement began in the early 17th century, with Dutch and Swedish traders establishing small outposts along the Delaware River. In 1664, the English seized control of the area from the Dutch, leading to the founding of proprietary colonies–East Jersey and West Jersey, each with distinct governance and land ownership policies that shaped its early development.

During the Revolutionary War, New Jersey played a pivotal role in the fight for American independence. The state saw significant military engagements, including the crucial victories at Trenton and Princeton in 1776 and 1777, respectively, which strengthened morale and strategic positioning for the Continental Army. Post-independence, New Jersey became the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 18, 1787, solidifying its place in the Union.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, New Jersey evolved from an agricultural economy to a hub of industrial and technological innovation. The Industrial Revolution brought rapid urbanization and economic growth, particularly in cities like Newark and Paterson, where manufacturing thrived. In the 20th century, New Jersey became known for its contributions to transportation, telecommunications, and pharmaceuticals, establishing itself as a center of innovation and commerce. Today, New Jersey continues to blend its historical significance with modern achievements, offering a vibrant tapestry of culture, industry, and natural beauty that reflects its enduring place in American history and society.

Students will create a historical timeline, a postcard, a spider map, and a fun facts storyboard showing what they have learned about New Jersey. Creating these visuals gives the students the opportunity to show their creativity and their unique view of the state that they have researched. In addition, the combined use of words and illustrations allows students with different learning styles to show what they know in an exciting and eye-catching way.