DELAWARE - Before Delaware proudly claimed its nickname as "The First State," its identity was intricately linked to its larger neighbor, Pennsylvania. For a significant period of its early history, the land that would eventually become Delaware was known as "The Three Lower Counties on the Delaware River" or simply "The Lower Counties." 
Delaware: From "The Lower Counties" to "The First State
The area's history dates back to the early 17th century when Dutch settlers established a trading post at Zwaanendael (present-day Lewes) in 1631. However, due to conflicts with local Native American tribes, this settlement was short-lived. 1638, Swedish settlers arrived and founded Fort Christina (now Wilmington), marking the first permanent European settlement in Delaware.
Under the Penn's Shadow
By the late 17th century, the English had gained control of the region. William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, also acquired the "Three Lower Counties" in 1682, primarily to secure access to the Delaware River for his colony. These counties - New Castle, Kent, and Sussex - remained under the jurisdiction of Pennsylvania, but they maintained a degree of autonomy with their assembly.
The Desire for Independence
As the American colonies grew and developed, so did the desire for self-governance in the Lower Countries. Tensions arose in Pennsylvania regarding overrepresentation and political control issues, leading to the establishment of a separate Delaware Assembly in 1704, further solidifying the region's distinct identity.
A State is Born
The growing desire for independence culminated in a bold act on June 15, 1776, when the Delaware Assembly officially severed ties with Great Britain and declared itself an independent state. This momentous occasion predated the signing of the Declaration of Independence by over two weeks, earning Delaware the title of "The First State."
The Name "Delaware"
The name "Delaware" itself has roots in European exploration. It's derived from the Delaware River and Bay, named after Thomas West, 3rd Baron De La Warr, the first colonial governor of Virginia.
A Legacy of Leadership
Delaware's early declaration of independence and its pivotal role in ratifying the U.S. Constitution as the first state solidified its place in American history. Today, the state proudly carries the legacy of its colonial past, with its nickname "The First State" as a constant reminder of its pioneering spirit and commitment to self-governance.