Located in the eastern part of Tennessee, Knoxville was founded in 1786 and named after Henry Knox, a Revolutionary War hero and the first Secretary of War in the United States. The city quickly grew into a bustling frontier town thanks to its strategic location along the Tennessee River and its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains. Knoxville played a key role in the Civil War, serving as a crucial transportation hub for both the Union and Confederate armies. The city was also the site of the Battle of Fort Sanders in 1863, a significant Union victory in the war. In the years following the Civil War, Knoxville experienced rapid industrialization and urban development, becoming known for its thriving manufacturing and textile industries. Today, Knoxville is a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history, bustling downtown area, and diverse population. It is home to the University of Tennessee and a variety of museums, historic sites, and outdoor recreational opportunities.