Alabama geology and topography map courtesy of USGS: A Tapestry of Time and Terrain.
What does "Alabama" mean?
The origin of the name "Alabama" remains somewhat questionable. Sources vary; the traditional story is that "Alabama" comes from the native American Creek language (meaning "tribal town"). Other sources claim it is derived from the Choctaw language, translating as "thicket-clearers" or "vegetation-gatherers." Many state names originate from native American languages. All State Name Origins
Alabama became the 22nd state on December 14, 1819.
