In 1932 Fulton County dramatically expanded. It annexed Milton and Campbell counties. This created its unusual elongated shape.
Fulton County is more than just Atlanta’s heart. It’s a place of rich history. It was formed in 1853 from DeKalb County. The name honors Robert Fulton. He created the first commercially successful steamboat.
But Fulton County’s story isn’t all smooth sailing. The post-Reconstruction era saw horrific violence. Whites lynched 35 African Americans from 1877 to 1950. The 1906 Atlanta Race Riot was particularly brutal. Whites killed at least 25 African Americans. This violence deeply impacted the city’s development.
Despite this dark past Fulton County thrived. In the latter half of the 20th century. It became home to numerous national and international corporations. This brought skilled workers from across the country. The county and its largest city Atlanta became more diverse and cosmopolitan.
In 1992 Fulton County made history. Jacquelyn Harrison Barrett became the first African-American woman sheriff in the United States. More recently Fulton County made headlines again. Rapper Playboi Carti was arrested here. Former President Donald Trump was indicted here. Fani Willis led the investigation.
Fulton County sprawls across 534 square miles. It’s nestled in the Piedmont region. The county is shaped like a sword. Its northern part is in the Etowah River sub-basin. The southern part sits in the Chattahoochee River basin. It’s bordered by several other counties. These include Cherokee Cobb DeKalb and Gwinnett counties.
Fifteen cities are within Fulton County. Atlanta is the largest. Parts of other cities like College Park extend beyond Fulton’s borders. The only unincorporated area is Fulton Industrial Boulevard. This section stretches from Brown’s Field to Fairburn Road.
The county’s population has generally grown. It topped one million in the 2020 census. The 2020 Census shows a diverse population. Black or African Americans make up 42%. Non-Hispanic whites are 38%. Other groups include Asian Americans and Hispanics.
Fulton County’s economy is robust. Major corporations call it home. These include Coca-Cola Delta Air Lines and UPS. The county also has a strong educational system. The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library system is vast. It’s one of the largest in Georgia.
Fulton County’s government is complex. It has a seven-member Board of Commissioners. The county manager handles daily operations. The county’s political landscape is overwhelmingly Democratic. It has voted Democratic in most presidential elections since 1876.
Fulton County faces ongoing challenges. Disputes exist between north and south Fulton. North Fulton is wealthier and largely Republican. South Fulton is more diverse and predominantly Democratic. Taxation and service distribution are constant issues. The county’s unique history continues to shape its present and future.