Raleigh

© Roy Digital Design

Raleigh has been the state capital of North Carolina ever since the site was selected in 1788. The first capitol was built between 1792 and 1794, but it burned in 1831. It was replaced by the present building, which was completed in 1840. In the Civil War, Union general Sherman occupied Raleigh on 14 April 1865.

The city has become a political, cultural, trade and industrial center and the Raleigh-Durham airport is an important air travel hub. The city's industries include electrical, medical, electronic and telecommunications equipment, apparel, food processing, paper products and pharmaceuticals. Raleigh is part of North Carolina's Research Triangle, an area and organization shared with Chapel Hill and Durham that utilizes the scientific talent of the three cities' universities. The cooperative has drawn numerous insurance firms and other corporations to Raleigh, which has become one of the fastest-growing U.S. cities. Raleigh is a research center for textiles and chemicals.

It is the seat of North Carolina State University, Shaw University, Meredith College, St. Augustine's College, St. Mary's College and Peace College. There are numerous libraries and museums in town. Some of the most interesting sights include an aboretum, a notable governor's mansion and several 18th-century houses, including the birthplace of President Andrew Johnson, whose home is preserved as a historic site. The city is the site of an arts complex that includes the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, A. J. Fletcher Opera Theater and Meymandi Concert Hall. It is also home to the National Hockey League's Carolina Hurricanes.

There are numerous hotels and restaurants in Raleigh. The city is in central North Carolina, 390 km south from Washington D.C.