United States Slavery

Dauphin County, located in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, has a rich and diverse history dating back to its establishment in 1785. The land was originally occupied by several Native American tribes, including the Iroquois Confederacy and the Susquehannock Indians. European settlers began arriving in the late 17th century, with Scots-Irish and German immigrants being the predominant groups.

The county's name, Dauphin, was derived from the title "Dauphin of France," which was given to the oldest son of the French king. The name was chosen to honor the French assistance during the American Revolution. In the early years, Dauphin County was primarily an agricultural area, with farming being the main occupation for its residents. The fertile soil and access to the Susquehanna River made it ideal for farming.

The county played a significant role during the American Civil War, with the state capital, Harrisburg, being an important strategic location. Confederate forces attempted to capture Harrisburg multiple times, with the most notable being the invasion of Pennsylvania in 1863, which culminated in the Battle of Gettysburg. The county also became an important transportation hub during the industrial revolution, with the construction of canals and railroads connecting it to major cities.

Over the years, Dauphin County has witnessed significant growth and development. In the 20th century, there was a shift from agriculture to industrial and service-based industries. The construction of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant in the 1970s brought international attention to the county during the infamous accident in 1979. Today, Dauphin County remains a vibrant and diverse community, with a mix of urban areas, suburbs, and rural farmland, offering residents a high quality of life and a rich historical heritage to explore.