A Brief History of South Carolina

Get to know the roots of your new home.

If you’re planning a move to South Carolina, it helps to understand the state’s rich and complex history. Known for its Southern charm, cultural heritage, and pivotal role in U.S. history, South Carolina has a story that stretches back centuries—shaping everything from its cities to its people and traditions.

Colonial Beginnings

South Carolina was originally part of the Carolina colony, chartered by King Charles II of England in 1663. By 1712, it had officially split into two—North and South Carolina. Charleston, founded in 1670, quickly became a major port and one of the wealthiest cities in the American colonies.

The state's early economy was built on agriculture, especially rice, indigo, and later cotton—crops made profitable through enslaved labor. The Lowcountry's plantation culture still influences the region's architecture, food, and culture today\

20th Century Growth

Throughout the 20th century, South Carolina transitioned from an agricultural economy to a more industrialized one. Textile mills, manufacturing, and later tourism and real estate helped fuel growth. The civil rights movement brought major changes, as Black South Carolinians fought for and gained equal rights, though challenges remained.

South Carolina Today

Modern South Carolina is known for its historic cities, natural beauty, and growing economy. It continues to attract new residents with its mix of tradition and progress. From the cobblestone streets of Charleston to the innovation hubs of Greenville and Columbia, the state offers a vibrant lifestyle rooted in history but looking toward the future.

Fun Facts About South Carolina

1. It’s home to the first-ever tea farm in the U.S.
The Charleston Tea Garden (on Wadmalaw Island) is the only large-scale commercial tea plantation in the country. You can tour it—and taste locally grown tea right from the source!

2. South Carolina has a state dance—and it’s called “The Shag.”
This beachside swing dance originated in the 1940s along the Grand Strand and is still popular in coastal communities today.

3. The state snack is boiled peanuts.
Salty, soft, and addictive—boiled peanuts are a roadside staple and a uniquely Southern treat. You’ll see stands pop up in summer and fall.

4. There’s a place called “Hell Hole Swamp.”
Yes, it’s real—and located in Berkeley County. It even has its own Hell Hole Swamp Festival with a 10K run and frog-jumping contests.

5. South Carolina has more golf courses per capita than almost any other state.
With over 350 courses—including the famous Ocean Course at Kiawah Island—SC is a golfer’s paradise.

6. Sweetgrass baskets are a treasured local art form.
These handmade baskets, crafted by Gullah artisans in the Lowcountry, date back over 300 years and are still made using traditional methods.

7. The Palmetto Tree on the state flag isn’t just for looks.
It’s a tribute to a Revolutionary War battle where soldiers used palmetto logs to absorb cannon fire at Fort Moultrie. The palmetto tree is now the state symbol.