Official state symbols date to the late 1800s, as legislatures throughout the U.S. sought to stake cultural claims and foster pride among their residents. First came flowers and flags.

State symbols, particularly flags, serve as powerful tools for fostering unity and civic engagement, with 58% of Americans considering their state identity significant to their sense of self.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A proposal to designate the tortilla as New Mexico's official state bread had unanimous support from lawmakers. On Friday, though, it ended up falling flat. It wasn't because ...

California voted to bar immigrants from schools and social services in 1994. Now most Californians see immigrants as a benefit to the state.

Official state symbols date to the late 1800s, as legislatures throughout the U.S. sought to stake cultural claims and foster pride among their residents. First came flowers and flags.

State Farm can soon start raising premiums by 17% for its California home insurance customers. State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara approved the rate hike Tuesday.