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South Carolina from its earliest history resisted European settlement beginning with the Spanish in the early 1500's.

An attempt by the French at mid-century resulted in the exploration party resorting to cannibalism against the harsh conditions on Parrish Island.

The first English settlement was made a century later in 1670 at Albemarle Point. However, harsh conditions drove settlers to the site of present day Charleston.

Leading up to the American Revolution, Charlestonians were strong supporters of their rights in the Stamp Act crisis in 1765, although later the Revolutionary war pitted colonists in favor of independence against those loyal to the king.

Staunchly pro-slavery, South Carolina was the scene of the beginning of the Civil War with first shots fired at Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861.

Along with many of its historical connections, today South Carolina offers visitors coastal scenery at renowned South Carolina beaches such as Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach, and summer vacation fun at Cypress Gardens in Charleston, and the Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden in Columbia.

Kid-friendly coastal SC

With so much to see and do along the South Carolina coast, family-friendly events and activities often take center stage at the height of the travel season. Beginning with North Myrtle Beach, the top highlights begin with "the reptile capital of the world" at Alligator Adventure featuring live shows and educational exhibits.

Moving south to Myrtle Beach, Ripley's Aquarium is one of the most visited attractions in all of South Carolina featuring a walk-through glass tunnel as fish swim up, around, and above visitors to the special delight of kids.

While in Charleston, a trip to The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry provides hands-on exhibits to keep the young one's occupied, and for kids of all ages try North Charleston's Whirlin' Waters offering the perfect place to chill out during a sultry SC summer vacation.

More information about South Carolina travel & tourism around the Web:

The Official Tourism Site of South Carolina- Check out feature travel articles with what's happening throughout the state, plus travel facts, vacation trip planner, major tourist attractions, hotel and dining guides.

Hilton Head Travel Guide - One of the top summer vacation attractions offering coastal beaches, romantic getaways, family fun, famous golf courses, top restaurants and hotels, plus practical visitor information including maps, directions, weather info.

Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau - Beautifully laid-out vacation guide featuring travel news & updates, hotel and dining guides, event calendar, major & nearby tourist attractions, maps, pictures, video clips.

Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau - More popular beach fun for the entire family with the latest news, weather info, major tourist attractions, hotel & dining guides, pictures, map, FAQ.

Greenville Convention & Visitors Bureau - In foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with guides to its scenic vacation wonders as well as dining & lodging, major & nearby attractions, maps, directions, visitor center contact info.

South Carolina Attractions, Roadside America - Offbeat attractions are the focus here, with tidbits on the weird and wonderful - including the world's smallest police station in Ridgeway, the Whirlygigs of Herron Briggs in Greensville, and the Serpentarium on Edisto Island.