The state of New Jersey is often viewed as one of the least understood in this country. People who travel through see nothing but highways, traffic, and a quick glimpse of something on a train ride pass-by view. But these views don’t capture the whole story of a state that has influenced American culture, innovation, and lifestyle for many years.
Although relatively small, New Jersey has a significant role in shaping the national identity of the U.S.A. New Jersey’s influence can be seen throughout the country in music, film, science, food, and history that is frequently overlooked.
A larger cultural footprint than the map shows
New Jersey has produced some of the most influential artists in American history. Artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Frank Sinatra, Whitney Houston, and Jon Bon Jovi have each contributed significantly to defining their respective musical genres, while being connected to the towns and communities that raised them.
New Jersey’s influence is not limited to music alone. For decades, television and film have utilized New Jersey as much more than a background. Shows such as “The Sopranos” and “Boardwalk Empire”, incorporated elements of local history, neighborhoods and cultures into their stories, making New Jersey an integral part of the narrative. New Jersey has also been home to multiple generations of actors, writers, and entertainers, including Meryl Streep, Jack Nicholson, Paul Simon, and John Travolta.
Historic sites and landmarks that depict America’s history
New Jersey’s historic sites and landmarks represent the state’s significance during pivotal times in American history. The Jersey Shore is one of the most recognizable coastlines in the country, with its beaches, boardwalks, and shore towns, which include Atlantic City, Ocean City, and Wildwood.
Viewing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from Liberty State Park reminds people that millions of immigrants first saw America along the New Jersey coastline. In Menlo Park, Thomas Edison developed his laboratory, producing inventions that greatly affected modern society, including the electric light bulb and phonograph. Located in a small central New Jersey town, Princeton University continues to contribute to academia globally through its blend of historical scholarly traditions and quiet residential surroundings.
Everyday foods that demonstrate New Jersey’s identity
Food plays a large role in New Jersey’s identity. With over 600 diners located within the state, New Jersey is often referred to as the Diner Capital of the World. These diners provide a meeting place for people of all ages and walks of life, available at all hours of the day and night.
Jersey tomatoes are known nationwide for their unique taste. Pork roll, or Taylor ham as it is commonly referred to, is a staple of a traditional New Jersey breakfast and is a topic of good-natured debate among residents of the state. Saltwater taffy and freshly baked bagels from neighborhood bakeries complete the picture of a food culture centered on familiarity, accessibility, and tradition.
The heart of New Jersey’s economy: innovation
While New Jersey’s culture and cuisine have shaped the nation, so too has its economy. New Jersey is a world leader in innovation. Pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and scientists are concentrated throughout the state. Advances in medicine, biotechnology, finance, and technology drive New Jersey’s economy and continue to shape the nation’s direction.
New Jersey’s legacy of innovation stretches back more than a century. Edison’s innovations in electricity, sound recording, and motion pictures set the stage for the work taking place today in laboratories and universities throughout the state.
Contradictions of the Garden State
New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the country and is known as “The Garden State.” The name represents New Jersey’s rich history as an agricultural state and its continued commitment to growing fruits, vegetables, and other crops. Farms, orchards, and preserved open lands are common in many parts of the state, often just a short distance from major urban areas and corporate headquarters.
Industry and agriculture exist together in New Jersey. Beaches and boardrooms share the same space. Diners and research labs are two sides of the same coin. Firsts in history and new trends in culture coexist in New Jersey.
More than a passing glance
For the people who call New Jersey home, the state is rarely defined by what outsiders think it is. New Jersey is more than one image or stereotype. New Jersey is defined by everything it manages to be simultaneously.
New Jersey influences the nation quietly and enduringly. New Jersey leaves its mark on the nation, not always seeking recognition. New Jersey has shaped the nation through its culture, innovation, and way of life.