Alabama – Alabama’s capital is Montgomery

(Pronounced al-uh-bam-uh and mont-gohm-uh-ree)

To remember the capital of the US state Alabama, use the following mnemonic:

The alligator’s mouth shut BAM! (Alabama) and then the monster was gone (Montgomery).

Alabama is nicknamed the "Yellowhammer" state – after the official state bird – and is also known as "the cotton state" and "the Heart of Dixie" (the Southern states are often referred to as "Dixieland"). It is a former "slave state" and suffered economic hardship over many years up to the Second World War due to its dependence on agriculture. The state's economy is now based on management, finance, manufacturing, aerospace, mineral extraction and technology. Farming now accounts for just one per cent of the state's gross domestic product.

Interesting facts about Montgomery:

- Civil Rights History: Montgomery is widely recognised as a pivotal crucible of the American Civil Rights Movement, serving as the site of both the historic Montgomery Bus Boycott and the landmark marches from Selma to the state capitol.

- Musical Roots: The city has a deep musical heritage and was famously home to legendary country music singer-songwriter Hank Williams, whose timeless songs and distinct honky-tonk style helped shape the genre.

- Aviation Beginnings: Before turning their sights to Kitty Hawk, aviation pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright established one of the nation’s first civilian flight schools in Montgomery in 1910, drawn by the area’s flat terrain and favourable weather.