Maine

Maine is the northeasternmost state in the United States, the largest in New England, known for its rocky coastline, lighthouses and lobster. Its capital is Augusta, while Portland is the largest city. Nicknamed the Pine Tree State, it is celebrated for its rugged natural beauty.

Maine has a deeply indented Atlantic coastline of bays, peninsulas and islands, backed by vast forests, lakes and the mountains of the interior, including Mount Katahdin. Much of the state is sparsely populated wilderness. The climate is humid continental, with cold, snowy winters.

Maine culture is tied to the sea and forest, with lobster fishing, boatbuilding and a tradition of independent, plainspoken character. Tourism thrives around Acadia National Park and coastal villages, and the state has a strong outdoor and craft heritage.

Home to the Wabanaki peoples and an early site of European fishing and settlement, Maine was long part of Massachusetts before entering the Union as the 23rd state in 1820 under the Missouri Compromise. Its economy grew on timber, shipbuilding and fishing.