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The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, located in Atlanta, is a popular tourist destination and includes the King Center, which features exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement and King's life and legacy.
About Fulton County
Fulton County Timeline
Fulton County, Georgia has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. The area that now comprises Fulton County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century and established trading posts and farms along the Chattahoochee River.
In 1853, Fulton County was created from portions of DeKalb, Cobb, and Campbell counties. Its formation was a result of Atlanta's rapid growth as a railroad hub, as well as its status as the capital of Georgia. The county was named after Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat.
During the Civil War, Fulton County played a significant role as a major supply and transportation center for the Confederacy. Atlanta, the county seat, was a key target for Union troops. In 1864, General William T. Sherman led his famous March to the Sea, devastating Atlanta and much of Fulton County.
After the war, Fulton County experienced a period of rebuilding and growth. The city of Atlanta became a prominent center for commerce and industry in the South. With the expansion of railroads and the establishment of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Fulton County became a major transportation hub and economic powerhouse.
Today, Fulton County is the most populous county in Georgia, with a vibrant cultural scene, diverse communities, and a thriving economy. It is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, prestigious universities, and world-class sporting events. Fulton County continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its residents, while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
In 1853, Fulton County was created from portions of DeKalb, Cobb, and Campbell counties. Its formation was a result of Atlanta's rapid growth as a railroad hub, as well as its status as the capital of Georgia. The county was named after Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat.
During the Civil War, Fulton County played a significant role as a major supply and transportation center for the Confederacy. Atlanta, the county seat, was a key target for Union troops. In 1864, General William T. Sherman led his famous March to the Sea, devastating Atlanta and much of Fulton County.
After the war, Fulton County experienced a period of rebuilding and growth. The city of Atlanta became a prominent center for commerce and industry in the South. With the expansion of railroads and the establishment of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Fulton County became a major transportation hub and economic powerhouse.
Today, Fulton County is the most populous county in Georgia, with a vibrant cultural scene, diverse communities, and a thriving economy. It is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, prestigious universities, and world-class sporting events. Fulton County continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its residents, while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
Fulton County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Fulton County, Georgia.
- 1845: Fulton County is created on December 20th, out of the western half of DeKalb County.
- 1853: Atlanta becomes the county seat after winning a county seat war against neighboring town, Marietta.
- 1864: During the Civil War, Atlanta is captured by Union forces led by General William T. Sherman.
- 1871: The first horse-drawn streetcar line begins operating in Atlanta.
- 1907: Atlanta's first professional baseball team, the Atlanta Crackers, is founded.
- 1956: Civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. leads the Montgomery Bus Boycott, sparking a nationwide movement for equality.
- 1973: The iconic Atlanta stadium, later known as the Fulton County Stadium, is completed.
- 1996: Atlanta hosts the Summer Olympics, showcasing the city's growth and development.
- 2000: The Georgia Dome, a multi-purpose sports and convention center, opens in Atlanta.
- 2017: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, opens its doors.