Tennessee: Volunteer State

Tennessee, in the Southeast, is known for music heritage including country (Nashville), blues (Memphis), and bluegrass, plus whiskey, barbecue, and Smoky Mountains. The state shaped American music more than any other.

Nashville, the capital and largest city, is "Music City" with Grand Ole Opry, country music industry, and honky-tonks on Broadway. Memphis has Beale Street blues, Graceland (Elvis's home), and BBQ. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park. Chattanooga has revitalized downtown. Knoxville hosted the 1982 World's Fair. Jack Daniel's distillery is in Lynchburg.

Tennessee's economy includes healthcare (Nashville), FedEx (Memphis), automotive manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. No state income tax attracts businesses and retirees. The state produced Elvis, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, and Aretha Franklin. Tennessee walking horses are prized. Civil War sites mark divided loyalties. The state blends Southern culture with country music and mountain heritage. Hot chicken, moon pies, and RC Cola are local favorites.