The capital of Georgia is Atlanta. Located in the northwestern part of the state, Atlanta is not only the capital but also the most populous city in Georgia, with a population of approximately 498,715 people as of 2021. The city serves as the cultural and economic center of the state, hosting numerous corporations, including Coca-Cola, which was founded in Atlanta in 1886.
History of Atlanta as the Capital
Atlanta has been the capital of Georgia since 1868, replacing Milledgeville, which had served as the state capital since 1807. The decision to move the capital to Atlanta was largely due to the city’s strategic location and its role as a major railroad hub, which facilitated transportation and commerce. During the American Civil War, Atlanta played a crucial role as a supply and logistics center for the Confederacy, and its capture by Union forces in 1864 was a significant turning point in the war.
Economic and Cultural Significance
Today, Atlanta is a thriving metropolis with a diverse economy that includes major industries such as film production, logistics, and technology. The city is home to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which is the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic, and it hosts numerous cultural attractions, including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, the Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca-Cola. Atlanta’s cultural significance is also reflected in its vibrant music scene, which has been influential in the development of genres such as hip-hop and R&B.
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Population (2021) | 498,715 |
| Elevation | 1,050 feet (320 meters) above sea level |
| Area | 134.0 square miles (347.1 km²) |
Education and Healthcare
Atlanta is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Emory University. The city is also renowned for its healthcare facilities, with Emory University Hospital and Piedmont Hospital being among the top-ranked hospitals in the nation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a federal agency responsible for protecting public health and safety, is headquartered in Atlanta.
Infrastructure and Transportation
Atlanta’s infrastructure is characterized by a comprehensive network of highways, including several interstate routes, and a public transportation system that includes buses and a heavy rail metro system known as MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority). The city’s airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, is not only a major hub for Delta Air Lines but also a significant economic driver for the region, supporting thousands of jobs and facilitating international trade.
The city's strategic location and extensive transportation network make it an attractive location for businesses and individuals alike, contributing to its growth and development as a major urban center in the southeastern United States.
What is the population of Atlanta, Georgia?
+As of 2021, the population of Atlanta, Georgia, is approximately 498,715 people.
Why was Atlanta chosen as the capital of Georgia?
+Atlanta was chosen as the capital of Georgia in 1868 due to its strategic location and its role as a major railroad hub, which facilitated transportation and commerce.
