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The state flag,
adopted in 1971, bears a shield with the figure of an Indian. The
Indian has been a symbol of Massachusetts since 1629. The star
represents Massachusetts as one of the original 13 colonies. A
crest above the shield, an arm wielding a sword, coincides with
the motto. The state seal, adopted in 1885, bears the same symbols
as the flag.
Massachusetts is the sixth smallest state of the United States,
but it stands among the leaders in many fields. Only New Jersey,
Hawaii, Connecticut, Delaware, and Rhode Island have smaller
areas. Massachusetts ranks third among the most densely populated
states, behind New Jersey and Rhode Island. Boston, the state's
capital and largest city, is a major U.S. air terminal and an
important regional seaport. It is New England's major center of
finance and trade. Universities in and around Boston help make the
area one of the world's great cultural, educational, medical, and
research centers. Historic landmarks make Massachusetts one of
America's main tourist spots. |
