Virginia became the tenth state to join the United States on June 25, 1788. Located in the southeastern U.S., it played a major role in the American Revolution and is known as the "Mother of Presidents" for being the birthplace of eight U.S. presidents. Virginia was a leading colony in the fight for independence and later a key state during the Civil War. Its capital is Richmond, and it has a rich history that has shaped the nation's founding and development.