The first state constitution in 1777 created eight counties: Burke, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Richmond, and Wilkes. These were carved out of the coastal areas that were settled when Georgia was a British colony. Since then, each revision of the state constitution has increased the number

of counties in Georgia. By the time of the 2020 census, Georgia had 159 counties, making it one of the states with the most counties in the United States. The increase in the number of counties was driven by factors such as population growth, economic development, and the need for more localized governance. Each county typically has its own local government and provides various services to its residents, including law enforcement, education, and infrastructure management. Over the years, various counties were created, merged, or renamed as the state evolved and grew, reflecting the changing needs and demographics of its population.