Dallas
Dallas is a major city in the U.S. state of Texas and is the largest urban center of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, the fourth-largest metropolitan area in the United States. The city is the county seat of Dallas County, with portions extending into Collin, Denton, Kaufman, and Rockwall counties. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city had a population of 1,345,047 in 2020, making it the ninth-most populous city in the U.S.
History: Dallas was officially founded in 1841 by John Neely Bryan, who selected the location near a natural ford on the Trinity River. The origin of the city's name remains debated, with possibilities including Bryan's friend or relative, Vice President George Mifflin Dallas, or the Dallas, England. The city initially served as a trading post for settlers and Native Americans. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s boosted Dallas's growth, transforming it into a major agricultural and commercial center for cotton and cattle. In the early 20th century, the discovery of oil nearby further fueled the city's economic development. The city is also known for the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963.
Geography and Climate: Dallas is located in North Texas, on the rolling plains east of the Texas Panhandle. Its climate is humid subtropical, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences a wide range of weather patterns, including occasional severe thunderstorms and tornadoes.
Economy: Dallas has a diversified economy with prominent sectors including telecommunications, computer technology, banking, commerce, energy, healthcare, medical research, transportation, and logistics. The Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex is home to several Fortune 500 companies.
Culture and Attractions: Dallas offers a diverse array of cultural attractions, including the Dallas Arts District, which houses the Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, and the AT&T Performing Arts Center. Other attractions include the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza (dedicated to the Kennedy assassination), the Dallas World Aquarium, and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The city also has a vibrant culinary scene, with a wide variety of restaurants offering cuisines from around the world.
Transportation: Dallas is a major transportation hub, with two major airports (Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field) providing extensive air service. The city also has a network of highways and freeways, as well as a light rail system (DART) and a bus network.
Education: Dallas is home to numerous colleges and universities, including Southern Methodist University, the University of Texas at Dallas, and the University of North Texas at Dallas. The city also has a large public school system and numerous private schools.