Phoenix is the capital and the largest city in the state of Arizona. The metropolitan area, known as the Valley of the Sun, includes the cities of Scottsdale, Glendale, Tempe, and Mesa. It is located at the upper edge of the Sonoran Desert along the normally dry Salt River.

As early as the 8th century the area was inhabited by the Hohokam who built a series of canals for farming. The civilization disappeared in the 14th century presumably after a long period of drought, though their original canals became the basis for the modern aqueducts that provide water to the region.

Phoenix has an arid climate with one of the highest average temperatures of any major city in the world. Rainfall is sparse, with thunderstorms occurring during the annual summer monsoon season which brings high humidity to the area. Snowfall is exceedingly rare.

Phoenix has a diverse economy based services, agriculture, and manufacturing. Due to its plentiful sunshine, tourism is an important element of the economy with many world-class resorts within a short drive from the city.

Several professional sports franchises are represented in Phoenix including the Arizona Cardinals (NFL), the Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB: NL), the Phoenix Suns (NBA), and the Phoenix Coyotes (NHL). Major NASCAR events are held at the Phoenix International Raceway.

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