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Two knights jousting.

Carolina Renaissance Festival

Ballpark lit up before people arrive.

Light the Knights Festival

The History of Charlotte

The Charlotte area was originally home to the Catawba Indians before being settled by European Immigrants in 1755. It was named after Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, who was made queen consort of Great Britain and Ireland in 1761, giving it the nickname the “Queen City.” It’s also known as the “City of Churches” thanks to the number and diversity of churches developed in the area during the 19th century.

During the American Revolutionary War, Charlotte earned a new nickname, “The Hornet’s Nest” after its citizens successfully drove out the occupying British forces. The city was among the first to draft its unofficial declaration of independence from British Rule in 1775.

In 1799, a 17-pound gold rock was found nearby – the first documented case in the United States, and the area became home to the nation’s first gold rush.

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