Is Delaware a Forgotten State?
Delaware has a few things going for it, including its status as the home to most major corporations and the hometown of a former President. However, for many, the state remains a mystery, often overlooked in favor of its more prominent neighbors like Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City.
Corporations and Legal Attention
Most major corporations are incorporated in Delaware, which gives the state some legal attention. This is due to its pro-business laws, which make it an attractive location for corporate incorporation. However, unless one is following some corporate takeover battles or legal proceedings in the Delaware Chancery Court, the state doesn’t often make national headlines. This has led some to wonder if Delaware is indeed a forgotten state.
A Home to a President
Joe Biden, the current President of the United States, is from Delaware. This fact has brought some level of attention to the state, but it’s still not enough to make it a household name for most people who don’t live in the eastern seaboard.
A Connecticut of the East
Delaware’s status as the smallest state (only slightly larger than Rhode Island) has made it difficult for the state to gain prominence. It has no major sports teams, it’s not a huge tourist destination, and it doesn’t have any major college sports teams either. This leaves Wilmington, the state’s largest city, to struggle for recognition.
Wilmington, with a population of only 70,000, is not that major of a city. Its metro area, however, is about 700,000, but much of that is due to its proximity to Philadelphia. Despite its strategic location, Wilmington is more of a place where people go to work rather than to party. Famous landmarks like the Hotel Dupont are few and far between.
The state's dominance by the DuPont family is a unique historical feature. There are few other states where one family has such an outsized influence. The influence of the DuPont family has left a lasting impact on the state's economy and culture.
Why Delaware Remains Out of the Spotlight
Delaware isn’t forgotten, but it’s often overlooked. It is a state with a rich history, and its small size makes it less prominent compared to larger, more diverse states.
After all, Delaware is known as The First State, and those studying US history will be well aware of its significance. However, it remains a state where the primary highway, I-95, passes through, making it a gateway to other states. Popular beaches like those in Rehobeth certainly add to its charm, but they are not enough to make it a top-tier destination.
It’s worth noting that there are other states that many people don’t often think about, such as Arkansas, Vermont, Wyoming, and the Dakotas. However, these states have their own unique selling points, such as Walmart in Arkansas or popular ski resorts in Vermont.
Conclusion
While Delaware may not be a forgotten state, it is certainly a state that often goes unnoticed. Its significance lies in its legal and corporate landscape, rather than its physical size or cultural prominence. Whether or not it is a forgotten state is subjective and depends on one’s perspective and location. For those living on the eastern seaboard, Delaware is well known, while for others, it remains a mystery.