Welcome to the Hoosier State, where basketball is king, the corn is sweet, and the racing is fast. Indiana is a state full of surprises, from the birthplace of Michael Jackson to the home of the Indy 500. Whether you’re a fan of history, sports, or just interesting-trivia, there’s something for everyone in Indiana. So, grab a corn dog and get ready to discover 15 fascinating Indiana facts that will leave you saying, “I never knew that!”
1-5 Fun Facts About Indiana
1. Indiana may be small, but it packs a punch! It’s the 13th smallest state in the US, with an area of just 36,418 mi² (94,321 km²).
2. Interestingly enough, it’s almost the same size as the entire country of Taiwan.
3. Don’t let its size fool you, It is home to a bustling population of 6.8 million, making it the 17th most populous state in the nation.
4. Indiana’s name may mean “Land of the Indians” or “Indian Land,” but sadly, most of the native people were forcibly removed from the state.
5. In the past, Indiana was home to lush forests that covered over 80% of the state. However, due to human development, only 17% of those forests remain today.
6-10 Interesting Facts About Indiana
6. Manufacturing is the bread and butter of Indiana’s economy, with a whopping 17% of the state’s population employed in this industry, more than any other state in the US.
7. When it comes to basketball talent, Indiana is truly the MVP. This state has produced more NBA players per capita than any other state in the US.
8. When it comes to exports, Indiana has a special relationship with Canada. The state exports more products to Canada than any other country, including cars, car parts, and pharmaceuticals.
Read More: 25 Weird and Awesome Facts About Canada That You Will Love Knowing
9. Every year in Santa Claus, Indiana, over half a million “Dear Santa” letters flood the post office. The most heartwarming part? Every letter is read and replied to, making Santa Claus the ultimate holiday destination.
10. Did you know that Indiana is home to four “moon trees“? Planted with seeds taken to orbit the moon by astronaut Stuart A. Roosa, these trees are now over 44 years old and can be found in Indianapolis, Lincoln City, Tell City and Cannelton.
11-15 Bad Facts About Indiana
11. In South Bend, Indiana, it’s against the law to force a monkey to smoke a cigarette. So, if you’re ever tempted to light up your primate friend, you’ll have to find another way.
12. . Watermelon lovers beware: picnicking with this juicy fruit is a no-no at Beech Grove Park in Indiana. It might be hard to resist, but it’s best to avoid getting in trouble with the law.
13. Barbers in Elkhart, Indiana, take note: it’s not okay to threaten to snip off a child’s ears. Keep those scissors under control!
14. When it comes to fishing in Indiana, leave the crowbar at home. It’s not only impractical but also illegal.
15. The king of Pop himself, Michael Jackson, has ties to Indiana. The legendary musician was born in Gary and spent part of his childhood in the state before rising to fame.
Read More: 25 Insane Facts about Michael Jackson that you probably didn’t know
That’s it for this post guys, I hope you had fun while reading 15 Illinois Fun Facts For Kid’s.
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