Vermont

Lore & Background

Vermont's name derives from a French translation of 'Green Mountain(s),' adopted in 1777 for the Vermont Republic, replacing the earlier name New Connecticut. The Green Mountains run north–south through the state, separating Lake Champlain and valley terrain on the west from the Connecticut River Valley on the east. Native Americans, including the Abenaki and Mohawk, inhabited the area for about 12,000 years before European contact.

During the 17th century, French colonists claimed the territory as part of New France. After France's defeat in the Seven Years' War in 1763, the area came under British control. Disputes arose between the provincial governments of New Hampshire and New York over land grants, leading to the formation of the Green Mountain Boys militia, which protected the interests of New Hampshire land grant settlers. The Vermont Republic was established in 1777 during the American Revolutionary War, abolishing slavery before any other U.S. state.

Vermont's economy in 2022 was $40.6 billion, ranking last among U.S. states by GDP but around 30th in GDP per capita. Key agricultural sectors include dairy, forestry, maple syrup, and wine. The state is one of the least religious and least racially/ethnically diverse states in the U.S.

Reader's Guide

Vermont holds a distinctive place in American history as the first political entity in the United States to abolish slavery, doing so as the independent Vermont Republic in 1777. This act predated the U.S. Constitution and set a precedent for abolitionist movements. The state's progressive character continues into the modern era, as it was among the first to recognize same-sex civil unions and marriage. Vermont also leads the nation in renewable electricity generation, with 99.9% of its power from renewable sources.

The state's geography, dominated by the Green Mountains, has shaped its economy and culture. Vermont produces approximately half of the nation's maple syrup, and its dairy and forestry industries remain significant. Despite having the smallest GDP of any U.S. state, Vermont ranks 21st in GDP per capita, indicating a relatively high standard of living for its small population. The state's capital, Montpelier, is the least populous U.S. state capital, and its largest city, Burlington, has fewer residents than any other state's most populous city. Vermont's history of land disputes between New Hampshire and New York, resolved through the formation of the Green Mountain Boys and the Vermont Republic, illustrates the complex territorial negotiations that shaped the early United States.

Did You Know?

• Vermont abolished slavery in 1777 as the Vermont Republic, but Pennsylvania was the first U.S. state to do so, in 1780.
• Vermont produces approximately 40-45% of the nation's maple syrup.
• The state has the highest proportion of renewable electricity generation at 99.9%.