North Carolina became the 12th state to join the United States on November 21, 1789. Located in the southeastern region of the country, it is bordered by Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, and the Atlantic Ocean. The state played an important role in the American Revolution and later in the Civil War. Its capital is Raleigh, and Charlotte is its largest city. Known as the "Tar Heel State", North Carolina has a diverse geography ranging from Atlantic beaches to the Appalachian Mountains and has been influential in U.S. history, culture, and industry.