Iowa City was the first capitol of the state of Iowa, before the capitol was moved westward to Des Moines. The city is primarily a college town, and the University of Iowa and its associated teaching hospital are among the primary employers in the area. Some manufacturing and a small but growing amount of university/commercial joint ventures also contribute to the economy.

The University of Iowa also plays a large role in the culture of Iowa City. College football and basketball games regularly draw large numbers of fans, resulting in an often festive atmosphere on game days. In terms of the arts, the university both attracts major performing artists and nurtures developing artists. Perhaps because of the university, Iowa City is significantly more liberal,   More...