Kentucky has a total area of 40,411 square miles (104,664 sq km). Rivers run throughout Kentucky and form most of the state's borders. The northern border is set by the twisting Ohio River, which meets the Mississippi in the western corner. In the east, the Big Sandy River separates Kentucky from West Virginia. In the southeast, the land is forested and mountainous. In this area lies Cumberland Falls, which claims North America's only moonbow (a rainbow caused by the moon). As you travel from east to west, the land gets lower and less hilly. Kentucky's famous Bluegrass Region is in the northern center area of the state. The grass in this area got its name because of its bluish blooms in the springtime. In northwest Kentucky is the Western Coal Field, where there are many caves.
Kentucky is one of the nation's top coal producers. Coal helps provide electricity to the state's residents and its industries. Other natural resources include small deposits of oil and natural gas. In the past, Kentucky has relied on farming to earn money. Tobacco, corn, and soybeans are still grown and sold there today. However, in the last century, the state has slowly moved from being an agricultural-based economy to an economy based on manufacturing. Kentucky produces cars, chemicals, industrial machinery, clothing, and electronics. Another well-known product of the state is its thoroughbred horses, which are specially bred for racing. For years, the thoroughbreds raised on the bluegrass plains have brought in millions of dollars.
4,241,474
Capital:
State Abbreviation: KY
Governor: Steve Beshear (Democrat)
U.S. Senators: 2
Jim Bunning (Republican)
Mitch McConnell (Republican)
U.S. Representatives: 6
Republicans: 4
Democrats 2
State Senators: 38
State Representatives: 100
Counties: 120