New Nationally renowned for its scenic beauty, New Hampshire makes the most of its small Atlantic frontage and the wilderness and forest of the White Mountains. Famous for the New Hampshire primary, this state has often been decisive in shaping the national contest each voting season.
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The first settlers came from England in 1622. The council for England immediately began making land grants. These grants helped stave off French penetration in the area. Settlement continued at a steady pace with many Puritans entering the area.
During the Revolutionary period, New Hampshire remained a Loyalist colony. In 1774 a band of patriots attacked Fort William and Mary seizing guns that would later be used against the British in the Battle of Bunker Hill. It was the first colony to declare its independence from England in 1776. After the war, New Hampshire continued to be influential by casting the ninth and deciding vote to ratify the Constitution in 1788. During the 19th century the state attained rapid growth. This was fueled by shipbuilding, agriculture and manufacturing. Two great statesmen hailed from the area during this period, Daniel Webster and Franklin Pierce.
The early 1900s were not kind to the state. The states economy took a severe downturn due in part to competition in the textile industry from the southern states. This, in conjunction with the Great Depression, all but crippled its economy.
Today, New Hampshire still continues to be a political hotbed as hopeful presidential candidates flock to the state as it hold the first primary of each voting season.
Industrial and commercial machinery, computer equipment, lumber, electrical products, printing and publishing all form the basis for a robust economy. Agriculture still plays an important role by growing vegetables, apples, poultry which account for 25 percent of the farming income. Maple syrup production is small, however many people flock to the state in March and April to witness the sap running.
New Hampshire does not have a statewide sales tax. There is an 8 percent Meals and Rooms Tax that includes beverages.
The state makes the most of its small Atlantic frontage. With only 18 miles of shoreline, it is lined with beaches that provide ample opportunity for a variety of water sports. Inland developments provide access to boating and swimming. The major vacation spot is the White Mountains where the wilderness and forest contrast with busy mountain towns. The long, cold winters provide the perfect weather for alpine skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing. The area between Conway and Lincoln has the 35 mile long Kancamagus Highway, which is nationally renown for its scenic beauty.
