Kentucky, officially known as the Commonwealth of Kentucky, is a state located in the East South-Central region of the United States. It is bordered by Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio to the north; West Virginia and Virginia to the east; Tennessee to the south; and Missouri to the west. Its capital is Frankfort while its largest city is Louisville.
Kentucky is known as the "Bluegrass State", a nickname based on the bluegrass found in many of its pastures due to the fertile soil. It's known for horse racing, bourbon distilleries, moonshine, coal, tobacco farms, and the Kentucky Fried Chicken franchise.
The state also boasts a significant cultural heritage, with roots in Southern culture, Appalachian traditions, and a strong influence of the Southern Baptist Church. The Kentucky Derby, held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, is a famous horse racing event known globally, while the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum celebrates another signature Kentucky cultural export.
The geography of Kentucky ranges from the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the broad expanse of plains in the west, with most of the state being characterized by hilly terrain and fertile soil.
Kentucky has a diverse economy with sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy fuel production, and medical facilities playing significant roles. The state is also home to the highest per capita number of deer and turkey in the United States, and the nation's most productive coalfield.
