Georgia: Its History, Condition and Resources

A historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the geography, history, economy, and natural resources of Georgia, one of the original thirteen American colonies. It serves as a comprehensive guide for understanding the state’s development and significance, particularly in the context of its diverse landscapes and agricultural productivity. In this book, Drake provides an extensive overview of Georgia's natural features, highlighting its rivers, climate, and soil suitability for various crops, particularly cotton, which becomes a focal point of the state's economy. He traces Georgia's settlement history from its indigenous peoples through the founding by James Oglethorpe and the subsequent evolution leading to the Civil War. The text also delves into the state's post-war recovery and industrial growth, addressing changes in agriculture due to the abolition of slavery and the impact of transportation developments such as railways. Ultimately, Drake presents Georgia as a state rich in resources and opportunities, poised for a robust future in both agriculture and manufacturing.