Alabama remained chiefly agricultural, with an economy tied to cotton. The state constitution of 1868 created Alabama’s first public school system and expanded women’s rights. Legislators funded public road and railroad projects, despite allegations of fraud and misappropriation.

The name of the Alabama River and state is derived from the Alabama people, a Muskogean-speaking tribe whose members lived just below the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers on the upper reaches of the river.

The Southeastern Ceremonial Complex (SECC) is a major component of the religion of the Mississippian peoples, understood through artifacts from archaeological excavations at sites like Moundville in Alabama. Contrary to popular belief, the SECC appears to have developed independently ...Read more

The removal of the Ten Commandments statue in Alabama led to protests around the capitol, with many people in favor of keeping the monument.

The use of state names derived from Native American languages is common in the U.S.; an estimated 26 states have names of Native American origin.

Alabama receives an average of 56 inches (1,400 mm) of rainfall annually.

The Spanish were the first Europeans to reach Alabama during their exploration of North America in the 16th century.

The peak tornado season varies across Alabama, with a primary season in the spring and a secondary season in November and December.

Alabama was recognized as a state in December 1819.