Philadelphia, United States. History, Economy, Architecture etc
Philadelphia is the largest city in the U.S. state and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. And the sixth-most populous U.S. city. Philadelphia, often called Philly. As the largest city in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia boasts more than 90 museums, classic colonial-period houses, landmark red brick buildings, historic churches and leafy parks. It was here that the Declaration of Independence was signed.
HISTORY
Before Europeans arrived, the Philadelphia area was home to the Lenape (Delaware) Indians. Europeans came to the Delaware Valley in the early 17th century. William Penn, an English Quaker, founded the city in 1682 to serve as capital of the Pennsylvania Colony. Philadelphia played an historical role in the American Revolution as a meeting place for the Founding Fathers of the United States, who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Philadelphia was one of the nation's capitals during the revolution, and served as temporary U.S. capital while Washington, D.C., was under construction. In the 19th century,
POPULATION
The city grew from an influx of European immigrants, most of whom came from Ireland, Italy and Germany. 68% of the population of the city identified themselves as Christian, the remaining 24% claim no religious affiliation. Other religions collectively compose about 8% of the population, including Judaism, Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism.
EDUCATION
Education in Philadelphia is provided by many private and public institutions. The Philadelphia area's many universities and colleges make it a top study destination, as the city has evolved into an educational and economic hub. The University of Pennsylvania, Temple University and Drexel University comprise the city's major research universities.
CLIMATE
Philadelphia falls under the northern periphery of the humid subtropical climate zone. Summers are typically hot and muggy, fall and spring are generally mild, and winter is moderately cold. Snowfall is highly variable with some winters having only light snow while others include major snowstorms. The January daily average temperature is 0.6 °C, July averages 25.6 °C.
COMMUNICATION
Philadelphia is served by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) which operates buses, trains, rapid transit (subway and elevated trains), trolleys, and trackless trolleys (electric buses) throughout Philadelphia.
Two airports serve Philadelphia: the Philadelphia International Airport is located 11 km south-southwest of Center City, providing scheduled domestic and international air service, while Northeast Philadelphia Airport in Northeast Philadelphia serving general and corporate aviation.
Since the early days of rail transportation in the United States, Philadelphia has served as a hub for several major rail companies.
GOVERNMENT
The city uses the mayor form of government, which is led by one mayor in whom executive authority is vested. The mayor has the authority to appoint and dismiss members of all boards and commissions without the approval of the city council. The mayor is limited to two consecutive four-year terms, but can run for the position again after an intervening term.
ARCHITECTURE
Philadelphia's architectural history dates back to colonial times and includes a wide range of styles. During the 18th century, the cityscape was dominated by Georgian architecture, including Independence Hall and Christ Church. In 1932, Philadelphia became home to the first modern International Style skyscraper in the United States, the PSFS Building. Independence National Historical Park is the center of these historical landmarks being one of the country's 22 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
ECONOMY
Philadelphia is the center of economic activity in Pennsylvania. Philadelphia's economic sectors include financial services, health care, biotechnology, information technology, manufacturing, oil refining, food processing, and tourism. Financial activities account for the largest economic sector of the metropolitan area, which is also one of the largest health education and research centers in the United States.
TOURISM
Philadelphia's history attracts many tourists, with the Independence National Historical Park (which includes the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and other historic sites. Philadelphia is also the home of many U.S. firsts, including the first library (1731), hospital (1751), medical school (1765), national capital (1774), stock exchange (1790),[24] zoo (1874), and business school (1881). The city became a member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities in 2015, as the first World Heritage City in the United States.
THINGS TO DO
The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall
An unforgettable historical site, the Independence Hall is the home of the Constitution that has guided America for over 200 years. Philadelphia is the place where the Liberty Bell rests, one of the most prominent symbols of the American Revolutionary War, an icon of liberty and justice.