Columbia is the capital and second largest city of the U.S. state of South Carolina. The city was founded in 1786 as the site of South Carolina's new capital city. It was chosen for its central location in the state and its proximity to the Congaree River, which would provide transportation and power for the new city. The city was named for Christopher Columbus.
During the American Revolutionary War, Columbia was briefly occupied by British forces in 1780, but was quickly retaken by the Americans. In the 19th century, the city became an important hub for the cotton and agricultural industries, and it was connected to the rest of the country by the South Carolina Canal and Rail Road Company, which was the first railroad in the state.
In the 20th century, Columbia became a center for higher education, with the establishment of the University of South Carolina and other colleges and universities in the area. The city has continued to grow and thrive in the 21st century, with a diverse economy and a rich cultural scene.
During the American Revolutionary War, Columbia was briefly occupied by British forces in 1780, but was quickly retaken by the Americans. In the 19th century, the city became an important hub for the cotton and agricultural industries, and it was connected to the rest of the country by the South Carolina Canal and Rail Road Company, which was the first railroad in the state.
In the 20th century, Columbia became a center for higher education, with the establishment of the University of South Carolina and other colleges and universities in the area. The city has continued to grow and thrive in the 21st century, with a diverse economy and a rich cultural scene.