Is Chicago a state?

Chicago is not a state, but a city within the state of Illinois. Known as the "Windy City," Chicago is located in the northeastern part of the state along the shore of Lake Michigan.

The "Land of Lincoln" was the 21st state to join the Union and achieved statehood on Dec. 3, 1818. The central city of Springfield serves as the capital. Chicago was established in 1830 and quickly became the industrial hub of the Midwest. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States with a population of 2.7 million, trailing just New York City and Los Angeles.