How much do you know about the state of Kentucky? Chances are, unless you?re from the area, you never really learned much about Kentucky and what it is known for. Maybe you learned a little bit about the history of Kentucky during one of your high school history classes. Besides that, unless you really enjoy Bourbon or you love Kentucky basketball teams, there is much you could learn about this great state.

Interested in finding out more about the state of Kentucky? Keep reading for more information on why people love Kentucky and some of the main things it is known for throughout the country.

Three Things Kentucky is Most Known For

Since Kentucky exists in the middle of the country, you can clump it together with all the Midwestern states and never really learn much about all the interesting things Kentucky is known for. Here are three things worth knowing.

1. Information about its beginnings

Kentucky joined the Union in 1792. It was the 15th state to become part of the Union. You may be surprised to learn how populous this state is. Believe it or not, as of 2016 there were more than 4.43 million people living in the state of Kentucky. That makes Kentucky the 26th most populous state in the United States.

2. Kentucky bourbon

One of the most popular drinks throughout the country is bourbon. You may drink bourbon regularly and not known much about its history or origins. While bourbon does not have to be made in Kentucky in order to be considered bourbon, statistics show that nearly 95% of bourbon actually is made in Kentucky. This is not just a nationwide statistic, either. 95% of the bourbon consumed throughout the entire world is first made in Kentucky.

So, if you are thinking about purchasing some nice bourbon for yourself or as a gift for someone else, make sure to find bourbon produced in Kentucky. That will make it more authentic and a gift that any bourbon lover will surely enjoy. If you?re like 55% of Americans who do their holiday or gift shopping online, be sure to look for somewhere selling true Kentucky bourbon before you make your purchase.

3. Kentucky sports

Whether you?re a college basketball fan or football fan, you have probably heard that is Kentucky is well-known for its college teams. Many people love to sport Kentucky football apparel and basketball apparel to show their allegiance. Whether they?re from Kentucky or not, that doesn?t stop many from sporting their Kentucky football apparel. When it comes time for popular basketball traditions like March Madness and building out your bracket, it is important to know as much as you can about each college basketball team and its potential at beating other college basketball teams across the country. Although the chances of filling out a March Madness bracket perfectly are on in 9.2 quintillion, it is still a fun and exciting tradition to give it your best shot.

There are only three people who, as both a player and a coach, were able to win an NCAA championship. One of these three individuals came straight out of Kentucky. Joe B. Hall from the University of Kentucky successfully became one of these three basketball stars after he won the NCAA championship as a player and a coach. The other two individuals were Bob Knight when he played at Ohio State University and when he coached at Indiana University and Dean Smith when he played for Kansas and coached at UNC Chapel Hill.

If you?re a fan of bourbon, basketball, football, or history, it may be worth a trip to Kentucky to learn more about any of these things. From bourbon trails where you can taste bourbon from famous distilleries, to going to a college basketball or football game, to visiting different museums and historic sites, there is plenty to do in the great state of Kentucky. Maybe you can even pick up some Kentucky football apparel, Kentucky bourbon apparel, or other Kentucky merchandise to take home.

Have you ever visited Kentucky or do you plan to in the near future? Do you own any Kentucky football apparel or Kentucky basketball apparel? Let us know your thoughts about this state in the comments.