Pennsylvania

North America, United States
United States

People from Pennsylvania are called:

Male/General:

Pennsylvanian

Pronunciation:

/ˌpɛnsəlˈveɪniən/

Quick Facts

Population:
12,990,000 (2024 est.)
Country:
United States
Region:
North America

Explore Pennsylvania

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Etymology & Origin

Named after Admiral William Penn (father of founder William Penn) plus Latin 'Sylvania' (forest land).

Notable People Associated with Pennsylvania

The area's rich history is reflected in the remarkable people connected to it.

Politics

Benjamin Franklin

Boston, Massachusetts (lived in Philadelphia)

One of the Founding Fathers of the United States, a polymath who was a leading writer, scientist, inventor, and diplomat.

Founding Father and inventions
Joe Biden

Scranton, Pennsylvania

The 46th President of the United States, who previously served as Vice President and a U.S. Senator.

46th U.S. President

Actor

Will Smith

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Actor, rapper, and producer who rose to fame in 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' and became a major film star.

Film and music

Musician

Taylor Swift

Reading, Pennsylvania

Global pop superstar and one of the best-selling music artists of all time, known for her narrative songwriting.

Pop and country music

Entertainer

Fred Rogers

Latrobe, Pennsylvania

Creator and host of the preschool television series 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood', known for his gentle persona.

Children's television

Athlete

Arnold Palmer

Latrobe, Pennsylvania

One of the greatest and most charismatic players in the history of professional golf.

Professional golf

Scientist

Rachel Carson

Springdale, Pennsylvania

Marine biologist and conservationist whose book 'Silent Spring' is credited with advancing the global environmental movement.

Environmental science

Artist

Andy Warhol

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Leading figure in the visual art movement known as pop art, famous for his works like the Campbell's Soup Cans.

Pop art

About Pennsylvania

  • Capital city: Harrisburg.
  • Historic sites in Philadelphia central to U.S. founding.
  • Economy includes energy, manufacturing, and healthcare.
  • Admitted as the 2nd state in 1787.

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