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South Carolina: State Resource Guide

This guide provides access to digital materials related to the state of South Carolina at the Library of Congress, as well as links to external websites and a selected print bibliography.

Introduction

South Carolina is one of the 13 original colonies and it lies on the southern Eastern Seaboard of the United States. The colony, named Carolina after King Charles I, was divided in 1710 into South Carolina and North Carolina. It lies on the southern Eastern Seaboard of the United States and is bounded on the north by North Carolina, on the southeast by the Atlantic Ocean, and on the southwest by Georgia.

South Carolina was considered one of the richest colonies in America by the time of the American Revolution. Its merchants and planters formed a strong governing class, contributing many leaders to the fight for independence. More Revolutionary War battles and skirmishes were fought in South Carolina than any other state, including major engagements at Sullivan's Island, Camden, Kings Mountain, and Cowpens. South Carolina ratified the United States Constitution on May 23, 1788, becoming the eighth state to enter the union.

This guide compiles links to digital materials related to South Carolina such as books, government documents, manuscripts, maps, motion pictures, photographs, sheet music, and sound recordings that are available throughout the Library of Congress website. In addition, it provides links to external websites focusing on South Carolina and a bibliography containing selected works for both general and younger readers.