Alabama

For many years, the economy of Alabama was based on agriculture, and the state suffered severe economic hardship because of that. However, since World War II, the economy has diversified with interests in mineral extraction, aerospace, heavy manufacturing, technology, health care, banking and education.

The first settlement in Alabama was the French colony at Mobile, begun in 1702. From 1702 to 1763, southern Alabama was held by Spain, then it was part of British West Florida until 1780 when it became part of Spanish West Florida. Spain held the territory until 1814 when it was transferred to the United States with the capture of Mobile by Andrew Jackson during the War of 1812. Central and North Alabama were part of the British colony of Georgia from 1763 and became part of American Mississippi when the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1783.

Alabama seceded from the United States in 1861 and joined the Confederate States of America. Few battles were fought in Alabama during the Civil War but, being on the losing side, Alabama wasn't allowed back into the Union until 1868.