Delaware Local Business Directory

Although this state is often mistakenly thought to be named after the Delaware Indians, its name actually derives from a colonial governor of Virginia, Thomas West, who was the third Baron De La Warr. Delaware is also called the First State due to its status as the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. The second-smallest state, Delaware is ranked sixth in population density in the U.S., with more than 440 people per square mile of land. Delaware's climate is temperate thanks to its coastal location.

The first inhabitants of Delaware were members of the Algonquian tribes and included the Lenape and the Nanticoke. In 1631, the first Dutch settlers established a colony in the area; although this initial settlement failed, Dutch immigrants were eventually able to create a foothold in Delaware known as New Netherland. This colony was conquered by the British and turned over to the leadership of William Penn in 1682.

Today, military and government agencies, banking services and education provide employment opportunities for many Delaware residents. Wilmington is the largest city, but Dover has experienced significant growth over the past decades. Beach resorts are among the most popular attractions for visitors to the state of Delaware; each year, tourists flock to a variety of exclusive events that include the Firefly Music Festival, the Nanticoke Indian Pow Wow, the Rehoboth Beach Jazz Fest and the Sea Witch Halloween Festival.