Vermont

Vermont is a small New England state in the northeastern United States, beloved for its green mountains, maple syrup and rural character. Its capital is Montpelier, the smallest state capital in the country, while Burlington is the largest city. Nicknamed the Green Mountain State, it is among the most rural and least populous states.

Vermont is dominated by the forested Green Mountains running north to south, with Lake Champlain along its western border and the Connecticut River to the east. Dairy farms and woodlands cover the landscape. The climate is humid continental, with brilliant autumn foliage and cold winters.

Vermont culture celebrates small-scale farming, local food, craft producers and environmental values, with maple syrup and artisan cheese as icons. Town-meeting democracy, skiing and an independent progressive streak define its identity.

Once an independent republic, Vermont became the 14th state in 1791, the first to join the original thirteen. Its constitution was the first in America to ban adult slavery. The state developed through farming, quarrying and tourism.