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I would say before the techie-boom of RTP and such in the 90s, Raleigh's "identity" as you call it, was definitely thoroughly based on it being the state capital. (Plus, perhaps, the home to NCSU.)
Now, however, it is definitely grown beyond that...a part of the Triangle, with RTP, Durham, & Chapel Hill....a technological center and now biological/chemical/pharmaceutical center as well.
I'd say that Raleigh's popularity grew when IBM started RTP.
Now Raleigh/Cary, etc. seems to be well known for just being a great place to raise a family. Although we are usually on alot of the TOP 10 places to live lists for different reasons, families seem to thrive here.
I'm not sure I can help much as far as describing Raleigh's identity, but just wanted to clarify that Research Triangle Park (RTP) and IBM as one of its first tenants are not in Raleigh but rather in Durham.
When I came to this area five years ago I had to describe Raleigh to family and friends back home. It was difficult.
I would begin by commenting on its place in the country and state. Borderline southern. Coastal state with a mid-Atlantic feel. Lots of transplants from the north-east and west. State capital. One of the three metropolitan regions in the piedmont. Mid-way between the mountains and the beaches.
Then I would describe the Triangle as a whole not solely the city of Raleigh. I would mention the universities and the evolution of the RTP. I would also comment on the decentralized nature of the area and the benefits of being close to Durham and Chapel Hill etc.
Lastly I would focus on Raleigh itself. I would admit that this was a good place to live but not really a city for visitors. Certainly there were some attractions but no real city vibe or wow factor. Below the surface image of bland and boring I did find elements of quirkiness and inspiration. I adore the whimsy of some of the older houses. I was charmed by the flying giraffe mural at city market. I smile whenever I think of the giant acorn in Moore Square. I also like the 'City of Oaks' and "City within a Park" titles. Preferable to a 'Concrete Jungle'.
Currently I think of Raleigh as a tween on the verge of adolescence. It is a city that is still in the process of establishing an identity. There is a desire to be like the big cities. There is growth. There is a gathering energy and excitement.
Check out the link below to see the new city logo. The Downtown Raleigh Alliance have divided downtown Raleigh into five unique districts: Moore Square, Fayetteville Street, Warehouse, Capital and Glenwood South. I think this initiative bodes well for the future of the city.
I'm not sure I can help much as far as describing Raleigh's identity, but just wanted to clarify that Research Triangle Park (RTP) and IBM as one of its first tenants are not in Raleigh but rather in Durham.
Let me clarify...when IBM moved into RTP, the areas of Cary and North Raleigh grew and became more expensive due to the IBMers moving to the area.
Even though RTP is in Durham, I'm not sure it really helped Durham.
Location: Between a nook-a-ler reactor and a dump, North Cackalacky
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Snowpea, that was a fantastic post! After mulling it over, IMHO you have it nailed.
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but most cities are readily identifiable by something, be it good or bad.
Not sure I get your question.
