Fun Facts About California - Golden State!

Aerospace

Did you know...For the first time in U.S. history, the American government sent a woman to space. California's Sally Kristen Ride became the world's third spacewoman on June 18,1983, when she flew aboard the shuttle Challenger. It was a momentous win for the United States. The Encine-born Ride once said, "I didn't come into the space program to be the first woman in space, I came in to get a chance to fly as soon as I could". Before Sally Ride became an astronaut she had been a tennis player. She was the first of two daughters born to Dale B. Ride and his wife, Joyce.

Leaders

Did you know...Under the leadership of the governor Edmund G. "Pat" Brown, California became one of the world's most industrialized regions. From 1959 to 1967, his regional plan combined a high-tech modern economy with a human development strategy (focused on improved education, employment, and water system). Later on, it also earned one of America's highest per capita incomes. Today California has one of the world's largest well-educated workforces.

Well-Known Women

Did you know...This state has notable women: Sally Ride ( astronaut ), Joan Didion ( author ), Dianne Feinstein ( politician ), Amy Tan ( author ), Barbara Boxer ( politician ), Janet Evans ( Olympic champ ), Liza Minnelli ( actress ), Isadora Duncan ( dancer ), Carla Anderson Hills ( politician ), and Jodie Foster (performer).