New Jersey

North America, United States
United States

People from New Jersey are called:

Male/General:

New Jerseyan

Pronunciation:

/njuː ˈdʒɜːrziən/

Quick Facts

Population:
9,300,000 (2024 est.)
Country:
United States
Region:
North America

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Etymology & Origin

The name New Jersey honors the Channel Island of Jersey in the English Channel. Sir George Carteret, one of the colony's founders, was born on Jersey and named the region in its honor.

New Jersey was one of the original Thirteen Colonies and became the 3rd state on December 18, 1787. The demonym New Jerseyan is formed by adding -an to the state name.

Notable People Associated with New Jersey

New Jerseyans and those associated with this region have made significant contributions to the world.

Music & Entertainment

Bruce Springsteen

Long Branch, New Jersey

An iconic singer-songwriter known as 'The Boss,' whose music often reflects the lives of working-class Americans.

Born in the U.S.A.The Boss
Frank Sinatra

Hoboken, New Jersey

One of the most popular and influential musical artists of the 20th century.

Legendary Singer and Actor
Meryl Streep

Summit, New Jersey

An Academy Award-winning actress often described as the 'best actress of her generation.'

Three-time Academy Award Winner
Whitney Houston

Newark, New Jersey

One of the best-selling music artists of all time, known for her powerful voice and numerous hits.

I Will Always Love You

Business & Innovation

Thomas Edison

Milan, Ohio (Lived in Menlo Park, New Jersey)

A prolific inventor who developed many devices that greatly influenced life around the world, including the light bulb.

Inventor of the Light Bulb

Aviators & Astronauts

Buzz Aldrin

Glen Ridge, New Jersey

An astronaut and engineer who was the second person to walk on the Moon.

Apollo 11 Astronaut

Sports Legends

Shaquille O'Neal

Newark, New Jersey

A Hall of Fame NBA player who is considered one of the greatest centers in basketball history.

Four-time NBA Champion

Civil Rights & Social Change

Alice Paul

Mount Laurel, New Jersey

A suffragist and women's rights activist who was one of the main leaders of the campaign for the 19th Amendment.

Suffragist Leader

About New Jersey

  • Capital city: Trenton.
  • Densely populated with strong pharmaceutical and logistics sectors.
  • Features Atlantic coastline and commuter links to NYC/Philadelphia.
  • Admitted as the 3rd state in 1787.

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