Ratification or Admission:  February 6, 1788 (6th)
Present Constitution Adopted:  1780
State Abbreviation:  MA
State Capital:  Boston
Largest City - Population:  Boston
Origin of the Name:  Based on the Algonquin Indian word massachussett meaning “near the great little mountain“
State Motto:  "Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem" (By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty)
State Nickname:  Bay State
State Song:  “Massachusetts! My Massachusetts” | Lyrics: James Ryder Randall | Music: to the tune of “Lauriger Horatius”
State Animal:  None
State Bird:  Black-Capped Chickadee
State Fish:  Cod
State Flower:  Mayflower
State Fruit:  Cranberry
State Gemstone:  Rhodonite
State Insect:  Ladybug Beetle
State Mineral:  Babingtonite
State Tree:  American Elm
State Flag:  A white field with the state seal or coat of arms in the center. It is a blue shield emblazoned with the image of a Native American, Massachusett. He holds a bow in one hand and an arrow in the other. The arrow is pointing downward representing peace.The white star represents Massachusetts as one of the original thirteen states. Around the shield is a blue ribbon with the motto: ” By the Sword We Seek Peace, but Peace Only Under Liberty.” Above the shield is an arm and sword, representing the first part of the Massachusetts’ state motto.

Economy

AGRICULTURE:
Seafood, nursery stock, dairy products, cranberries, vegetables.

MINING: produces common clay, construction sand and gravel, crushed stone, lime, and natural gemstones.

MANUFACTURING:
Machinery, electric equipment, scientific instruments, printing and publishing, tourism.

For addition information check the listings below pertaining to this state

Famous Residents History Inventions Trivia