Ten fun facts about Arkansas

1. The Rise of Wal-Mart

In 1950, Sam Walton founded Wal-Mart in Bentonville, Arkansas, and it has since become the world's largest retailer. With a staggering revenue of over 450 billion US dollars and a workforce of 2.2 million people, Wal-Mart has become a global powerhouse, revolutionizing the retail industry and making Bentonville, Arkansas a household name.

Also → The Capital of Arkansas: Little Rock

2. A State of History, Tradition, and Culture

An Arkansan is the name given to a person from Arkansas, but they can also be referred to as an Arkansasan, Arkansasian, Arkie, or even an Arkansawyer. These terms are all used to describe someone who is native to the state of Arkansas, and each has its own unique history and origin. For example, the term 'Arkie' is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, while 'Arkansawyer' is thought to have been used as early as the mid-19th century.

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3. The Best of Little Rock: A Guide to the State's Capital

As the largest city in Arkansas, Little Rock serves as the state capital and is home to a variety of attractions, including the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, the Arkansas State Capitol, and the Old State House Museum. Little Rock is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and music venues. With its rich history and culture, Little Rock is a great destination for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty and culture of Arkansas.

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4. The Klipsch Story

In 1946, Paul Klipsch, an Arkansan from Hope, revolutionized the speaker industry when he discovered that horn-type speakers had a richer sound than cone-type speakers. He began selling his Klipsch speakers out of a small tin shed in Hope, Arkansas, and his invention quickly gained popularity. His speakers are still renowned for their superior sound quality and are used in many recording studios and home theaters around the world.

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5. The Life and Times of Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash, the iconic singer and songwriter, was born in Kingsland, Arkansas on February 26, 1932. His family soon moved to Dyess, Arkansas, where he spent the majority of his childhood. After graduating high school, Cash enlisted in the United States Air Force on July 7, 1950, and went on to become one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.

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6. The State of Arkansas' Meteorite Hotspot

In 1886, a 48.5 Kg meteorite was discovered in Cabin Creek, Arkansas, making it the first meteorite to be recovered from a witnessed fall in the state. Since then, a total of fifteen meteorites have been found in Arkansas, making it a hotspot for meteorite hunters. The meteorites found in Arkansas range in size from small pebbles to large boulders, and have been discovered in various locations across the state.

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7. The Healing Waters of Hot Springs National Park

Arkansas is known by many names, but one of the most interesting is the Hot Springs State. This nickname is a reference to the 47 hot springs located in Hot Springs National Park, which have been a popular destination for centuries. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties, and the area has been a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The hot springs are also a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience the natural beauty of the area.

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8. The Diamond State

In Arkansas, the diamond is the official state gem and the Crater of Diamonds State Park is the only diamond-producing site in the world open to the public. In June 2015, a woman visiting the park made a remarkable discovery - an 8.52-carat white diamond! This is the largest diamond ever found by a park visitor and is a testament to the potential of the park to yield some of the world's most precious gems.

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9. The Natural State: A Guide to the Best of Arkansas

Arkansas is a state with a long and varied history. It was originally known as "The Land of Opportunity" but in the 1970s, the state adopted the name "The Natural State" for its tourism advertising. This name has since become synonymous with the state, and it is now officially recognized as such. The name was chosen to reflect the state's natural beauty, with its lush forests, rolling hills, and abundant wildlife. Arkansas is a great place to explore and enjoy the outdoors, and its nickname is a fitting reminder of its natural beauty.

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10. The Mockingbird: A Symbol of Southern Culture

The mockingbird is a beloved symbol of Arkansas, having been chosen as the official state bird. However, Arkansas is not the only state to recognize the mockingbird as its own; it is also the state bird of Florida, Texas, Tennessee, and Mississippi. This is a testament to the mockingbird's wide appeal, as it is a beloved symbol of the South and its culture.

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