Final answer:
North Carolina is nicknamed Tar Heel State because of the bravery and determination shown by North Carolina soldiers during the American Civil War. The term 'tar heels' originally referred to the workers who applied tar to the wooden ships in North Carolina's ports.
Step-by-step explanation:
The state nicknamed Tar Heel State is North Carolina. The nickname originated during the American Civil War when North Carolina soldiers exhibited bravery and determination in their defense of their home state. The term 'tar heels' referred to the workers who applied tar to the wooden ships in North Carolina's ports.