Tennessee became the 16th state to join the United States of America 219 years ago on June 1, 1796.

The earliest settlements were located in northeast Tennessee along the Watauga River, North Holston River, Nolichucky River and Carter’s Valley, according to the state’s website.

In 1784, settlers from East Tennessee and part of western North Carolina broke off and formed the State of Franklin, which dissolved in 1788.

When North Carolina formally joined the United States in 1789, it gave the Tennessee portion of its western property to the federal government. Congress designed it as the Territory of the United States, South of the River Ohio.

Congress approved Tennessee as a separate state seven years later.

Knoxville served as the state’s first capital. It moved permanently to Nashville in 1826.

John Sevier was Tennessee’s first governor. His home, Marble Springs, is preserved as a historic site located off Governor John Sevier Highway in South Knoxville.

Tennessee is divided into three grand divisions, East, Middle and West, which are reflected in the three stars on the state’s flag.

Tennessee has produced three U.S. presidents: Andrew Jackson, James Polk and Andrew Johnson.

You can learn more about Tennessee’s official symbols and history on the state’s website.