Tampa FL is known as the Lightning capital of the United States. Tampa is derived from the Calusa Indian word 'itimpi' meaning 'sticks of fire'. With an area of 441.9 sq.km, Tampa is the third largest city in Florida.
Early History about Tampa FL
Tampa was originally a Calusa Indian settlement. In 1528, the Spanish Narvaez Expedition made a brief stop in the area with hopes of setting up a camp. Attracted by the prospect of more riches, the explorers moved north and met an unfortunate end at the hands of the local tribesmen. The sole survivor was rescued by members of the Spanish Expedition led by Hernando De Soto in 1539. The Spanish then made a peace treaty with the Calusas which would permit them to build an outpost in the area. However the camp was soon abandoned when it was realized that there was little or no gold in the area. The English finally conquered Florida in 1763 and renamed the area Hillborough Bay. The state of Florida was finally acceded by Spain to the US in 1821 as part of the Adams-Onis treaty. Tampa was officially recognized in January 1849 with 185 local residents. Tampa was given the status of a town in 1855. Civil war eroded the town's fortunes badly till in 1885, Tampa flourished as a center of the Cigar production industry under the guidance of Vicente Martinez Ybor.
Demographic Information about Tampa FL
According to 2000 US Census Data, Tampa FL had a population of 303,447 and a population density with 1045.4 persons per sq.km.
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The percentage of white skinned population is 64.22%. African Americans constitute 26.07% of the population. Tampa has a remarkable number of Puerto Rican and Cuban immigrants. The average per capita income is US$ 21,953 and average household income is US$ 40, 517. 18.1% are below the poverty line.
Tampa FL Weather
Tampa FL has a typical subtropical type of climate. The weather is mostly mild with average annual temperatures varying between 18 o C to 35 o C. Summer months are from May to October with heavy precipitation from July to September. Winters are mild with bright sunshine. November is the driest month while August has maximum rainfall. There are occasional instances of thunderstorms and tornadoes in summer.
Local Attractions in Tampa FL
- Florida Aquarium, Big Cat Rescue Facility at Citrus Park, Lowry Park Zoo and the Suncoast Primate Sanctuary.
- Historic Districts like the Hyde Park District and Ybor City.
- American Victory Museum, USF Contemporary Art Museum, Tampa Museum of Art, Museum Of Science and Industry and Tampa Bay History Center. There is even a Cigar Museum!
- African Art Gallery, Artists Unlimited and the Graphicstudio.
- Betting action at the Horse Races at the Tampa Bay Downs Race Course and Greyhound Races at the Tampa Greyhound Track.
- Amusement Parks like the Busch Gardens with its vertical drop roller coaster Sheikra.
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