In 1788 state lawmakers, who had been meeting in towns throughout the state, chose Wake County for its central location and purchased 1,000 acres land specifically to establish the capital. Named after explorer Sir Walter Raleigh, the city was called the City of Oaks, dedicated to maintaining parks and woods for public use. In 1792 the city was laid out. The first capitol burned in 1831, replaced by the present-day structure in 1840. During the Civil War, the city was occupied by Union general Sherman. President Andrew Jackson was born in Raleigh.

Today, Raleigh is a major transportation hub with the Raleigh-Durham Airport, as well as a center for politics, culture, international trade and numerous industries that include electrical, medical, telecommunication, paper products, pharmaceuticals, and research for textiles and chemicals. With six colleges and universities, its museums, art centers and historic landmarks draw thousands of visitors each year.