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![graphic map, flower and images of Tennessee](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090114022315im_/http://www.americaslibrary.gov/assets/es/tn/es_tn_subj_m.jpg)
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Called the "Volunteer State," Tennessee became the 16th state of the Union in 1796. It was the first territory admitted as a state under the federal Constitution. Before statehood, it was known as the Territory South of the River Ohio. The name Tennessee is derived from the name of a Cherokee village, Tanasi. Today, the capital, Nashville, is known as a center for country music. Memphis, the largest city in the state, is the place where Elvis Presley first began his legendary musical career. The state flower is the iris.
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![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090114022315im_/http://www.americaslibrary.gov/assets/es/f_left.gif) ![Photo of Paris, Tennessee 'Welcome' sign with catfish on top](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090114022315im_/http://www.americaslibrary.gov/assets/es/tn/es_tn_fish_1_t.jpg) ![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090114022315im_/http://www.americaslibrary.gov/assets/es/f_right.gif)
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