(State of Utah)

General Information:

Location: Western United States
Capital: Salt Lake City
Language(s): English
Population: 2,834,353
Total Area: 219,887 sq km
Curious Alcohol Fact: Alcohol sale is controlled.
Most Popular Drink(s): Soft drinks, beers
Nickname: The Beehive State
What You Must Do in Utah: Visit the Salt Lake Temple.

Utah Travel Video

Courtesy: wsln2010

The State

The state of Utah derives its name from the Ute, one of the Native American tribes that inhabited the region before the arrival of the Mormons, who were fleeing religious persecution. Additionally, the name ‘Utah’ signifies the ‘people of the mountains’ in the native tongue. Admitted into the Union in 1896, Utah became the 45th state in the nation.

Upon investigating the reasons for the state’s late entry into the Union, I made an astonishing discovery: Mormons in the state had embraced polygamy and were reluctant to abandon the practice. The fascinating story of how the state began reflects the determination and will of a group of religious individuals to survive against all odds.

Utah shares borders with Wyoming to the northeast, Idaho to the north, Colorado to the east, Arizona to the south, and Nevada to the west. An intriguing intersection occurs where the state meets with Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico, forming the unique meeting point known as the Four Corners, characterized by four right angles.

The People

In the state of Utah, the Whites are in a clear majority, as they constitute 80% of the population. Many of the Whites have roots in European nations such as England, Scandinavia (Denmark, Sweden and Norway), Germany, Ireland, Scotland, France, Italy and Switzerland. Other groups include the Blacks (African Americans), American Indians (Native Indians), Asians and the Native Hawaiians (and other Pacific Islanders).

When it comes to religion, Utah is in a class of its own as I noticed a trend not repeated in any other state in the country –around 60% of the state’s residents belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. That makes Utah the state with the largest representation of Mormons in the United States.

Eating

The most popular dish in the state of Utah by far is jell-o. This dessert is made from fruits, gelatin and flavoring. Almost every Utahan has one fantastic story or the other to tell about the delicacy. Above all, it is so popular and beloved that it has been made the state’s official snack. In addition, everyone should definitely taste it.

But apart from jell-o, another dish that you need to try out in Utah is high in calories –funeral potatoes. This meal is made using cheese, frozen potatoes, cream, chicken soup and crushed cornflakes –it is really enticing and delicious. However, Mormon cuisine also incorporates pastrami burger (oh, you will love the meaty toppings!) and far from what many assume, Utah is a nice place to dine.

Drinking

Utah may be a nice place to dine but to wine may pose some challenges. In a state where Mormon laws are dominant, sale of alcohol is understandably controlled and regulated. Utah laws stipulate that you can only buy alcohol from government-approved liquor stores and that usually means you will have to buy at higher rates. However, if you are a law-abiding citizen, you should not have too much trouble getting your booze!

Sports

The religious aura over the state of Utah has not stopped its inhabitants from enjoying themselves when it comes to sports. Basketball (give it to Utah Jazz!), baseball and football are hugely popular in the state. However, these are not the only sporting activities in the state.

Interesting Facts

About 60% of Utahans are Mormons.
The name Brigham Young is always synonymous with the state.
The Salt Lake Temple is one of the most popular sites in the state.
The Monument Valley is one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Utah souvenirs

Utah, with its multitude of iconic symbols and landmarks, has always been and remains one of the most popular places to purchase souvenirs. But, among the many options of Utah-themed souvenirs, shot glasses are considered particularly and intriguing items for collecting or gifting.

Story By World By Shotglass
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Special thanks to our contributors:
Adebayo Ahmed Adebola (Ilorin, Nigeria).