Kentucky is often associated with the Kentucky Derby. The name of the state means "land of tomorrow." The state was the first region west of the Allegheny Mountains to be settled by American pioneers.The 2000 resident census population for Kentucky was 4,041,769, according to Pearson Education Infoplease. Kentucky has a rich history, and many of its cities were named after famous people.
Louisville is the capital of Kentucky and home to the Kentucky Derby. Louisville was named after King Louis XVI of France because of the major role he played in assisting the American Colonies during the war for independence. This explains why the actual pronunciation of the city is Louie-Ville. The city's symbol is the fleur de lis, which is a symbol for French royalty. A statue of King Louis XVI resides outside the courthouse in downtown Louisville. He played a major role with the American Revolution when he made a deal with Benjamin Franklin to send assistance to the United States. They sent supplies and soldiers, which helped form America's independence.
Elizabethtown is located in Harden County, Kentucky, and was founded in 1795. Colonel Andrew Hynes, one of three early settlers who built forts that served as a defense against the American indians, established the city of Elizabethtown and named it after his wife, Elizabeth. Hynes built his fort on the springs that currently serve as Elizabethtown's water supply. Hynes served as one of the delegates that formed the first Constitution of Kentucky in 1792.
Franklin is located in Simpson County, Kentucky. Franklin was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States. Benjamin Franklin was the first American Ambassador to France and he exemplified the emerging American nation. He sent the needed soldiers and supplies that helped form America's independence. Simpson County is one of Kentucky's smallest counties, and Franklin is at the seat of that county. The population was 7,996 at the 2000 census.
