State of South Carolina

General Information:

Location: Eastern United States
Capital: Columbia
Language(s): English
Population: 5,148,714
Total Area: 82,931 sq km
Curious Alcohol Fact: The Prohibition Act stirred up controversy in the state and the effects are still seen today.
Most Popular Drink(s): Beers, wines
Nickname(s): The Palmetto State
What You Must Do in South Carolina: Watch a game at the William-Bruce Stadium.

South Carolina Travel Video

Courtesy: cogan1nascar24

South Carolina: History, People, Food, and Fun Facts

The State

South Carolina, one of the 13 original colonies, declared independence from Great Britain alongside Rhode Island. Named after King Charles II of England, its name comes from the Latin “Carolus.” Interestingly, South Carolina was the first state to secede from the Union.

Shaped like a triangle, South Carolina borders North Carolina to the north and Georgia to the southwest. The Atlantic Ocean lies to the southeast, offering stunning coastal views. Three major rivers—the Santee, Savannah, and Pee Dee—flow through the state, shaping its diverse landscape.

South Carolina is also home to several beautiful lakes, including Lake Marion, Clark Hills Lake, and Lake Hartwell. The state’s humid subtropical climate brings mild winters and hot, wet summers. As you approach the Atlantic Coast, temperatures cool. Columbia, the state’s centrally located capital, is also its largest city.

The People

South Carolina has a diverse population. Nearly 70% of residents are White, while African Americans make up almost a third of the population, a higher percentage than in many other states.

Other ethnic groups include Indigenous peoples, Asians, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. Christianity is the most widely practiced religion, with Southern Baptists, Methodists, and Presbyterians being the largest denominations.

Eating in South Carolina

Dining in South Carolina is a treat, especially for fans of Lowcountry cuisine.

For soup lovers, sweet potato and crab soup is a must-try. Another favorite is gumbo, a rich, flavorful dish made with okra. Given the state’s proximity to the ocean, fresh seafood is a staple. Steamed lobsters and roasted oysters are commonly found on menus.

In the cities, Charleston red rice is a beloved dish, often served with roasted chicken breast for a satisfying Southern meal.

Drinking in South Carolina

South Carolina offers a variety of drinks to suit every taste. Coffee and tea lovers can find high-quality options in cafes and restaurants. For those looking for something stronger, the state boasts an impressive selection of local wines and craft beers.

Columbia, the capital city, is the best place to explore South Carolina’s finest liquor and distilleries.

Interesting Facts About South Carolina

• The Birthplace of Sweet Tea – Summerville is credited as the birthplace of sweet tea, a staple of Southern hospitality.
• America’s Only Tea Plantation – The Charleston Tea Garden is the only large-scale tea plantation in the United States.
• The Palmetto State’s War Hero – During the Revolutionary War, palmetto logs helped absorb British cannon fire, inspiring the state’s nickname and flag design.
• Gullah Culture and Language – The Gullah people, descendants of West African enslaved communities, have preserved a unique language, cuisine, and traditions along the coast.
• Myrtle Beach: Golf Capital – South Carolina has over 350 golf courses, making Myrtle Beach one of the top golf destinations in the world.

South Carolina Souvenirs

South Carolina is a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs that celebrate its history and culture. Among the most popular keepsakes, shot glasses featuring state landmarks and symbols are highly sought after. These collectible items make perfect gifts or additions to any souvenir collection.

Story By World By Shotglass
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©2025 World By Shotglass. All Rights Reserved
Special thanks to our contributors:
Adebayo Ahmed Adebola (Ilorin, Nigeria).

South Carolina: A Tapestry of History, Culture, and Southern Charm