What's the History and Heritage of Alabama?

History buffs will love Alabama; its historic credentials are impressive! Civil War battlefields; Antebellum mansions of a long-gone era; a key Civil Rights region; and the birthplace of music greats, including the great Hank Williams. The Alabama Civil War Trail is a must for anyone with a keen interest in history or war...or both! This 45-site trail is packed with historic intrigue.

Birmingham, Alabama

• In the late 19th century, Birmingham became the South’s foremost industrial centre as the steel industry boomed.  The steel industry's decline in the 1960's coincided with racial unease, with Alabama becoming central to the Civil Rights movement. 
• The Civil Rights struggle is told today in vivid detail at the Civil Rights Institute, in sculptures at Kelly Ingram Park and at the 16th Street Baptist church, location of a racial bombing that killed four young girls. The Baptist Church may soon become one of the first World Heritage Sites in America, linked to the struggle for Civil Rights. All three of these Civil Rights sites are located at the same intersection in downtown Birmingham. 

Montgomery, Alabama

• The telegram starting the American Civil War was sent from the State Capitol in Montgomery. 
• Almost 100 years later Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus and the modern Civil Rights struggle in America was born. The Rosa Parks museum here gives a fascinating insight to events that changed a nation.
• Visit the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail which crosses the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, an icon for the Civil Rights struggle in America.
• Just one block from the State Capitol was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s first church as pastor. You can tour both his church and home. 

Mobile, Alabama

• Mobile is the home of America’s first Mardi Gras, which is still celebrated today. 
• A few miles north is Blakeley Historical Park where a contingent of 20,000 men fought the last major battle of the Civil War.

Why not check out our Alabama Road Trip itineraries - there's plenty of built-in history!

Or do get in touch with our Alabama State experts if you need any advice on planning your trip.