History Of The State Of Montana
Beautiful Montana, with it's towering peaks and sweeping valleys, is not at all what people would expect. Learn how Montana became a state and more.
The Montana territory was first explored in the 1700's by members of the Verendrye family, who explored the northern great plains and western Canada. They established fur trading post throughout the areas of their explorations. After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 the Montana region was opened up by Canadian and American fur traders, including mountain men. The Lewis and Clark expedition, which was a military exploring expedition, crossed the region in 1805. The purpose of the expedition was to search out a route to the Pacific and to gather information about Indians as well as the far west. Headed by President Jeffersons private secretary, Meriwether Lewis and aided by William Clark, the members set out in 1804 from St Louis up the Missouri River. An indian woman guide, Sacajawea, aided them in crossing the Rockies. Their expedition opened up vast new territories.
Gold was discovered in the 1860's in Montana. This was the beginning of mass moves of settlers to the area. When silver was discovered in 1875 and copper in 1880, the mining trend for the Montana area was set. Early visitors to the area were struck by the way miners joined together, founded their camps and created societies. As the gold bonanza begin winding down, the growth of ranching in territory brought new settlers. Montana was established as a territory in 1864, partly to curb lawlessness. In 1876 General G. A. Custer was massacred by the Sioux Indians at the Little Bighorn River. The surrender of Chief Joseph and his Nez Perce band marked the end of major indian wars in Montana. When the railroads pushed west from 1880 to 1910 cow towns sprang up. In 1889 Montana became the 41st state to join the union.
Today Montana covers an 147,138 square mile area. The Capitol is Helena. The demand for copper in World War II stimulated the states economy followed by an oil boom in the 1950's. The land is marked by high granite peaks, forest, rivers and lakes in the western part and great rolling plains in the east. The State Flower is the Bitterroot and the State Bird is the Western Meadowlark.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010
Minnesota State History
Minnesota State History
Minnesota has more than 11,000 lakes and many rivers. Learn the exciting facts about how it became a state. French fur traders came to the Minnesota area in the late 17th century. Shortly after this, explorers and missionaries of New France followed. The eastern part of Minnesota was in the Northwest Territory and went to Britain after the French and Indian wars of 1763. This was the name given to the North American colonial wars between England and France late in the 17th century. The ultimate aim of these wars was domination of the eastern part of the continent. The wars were marked by the capture of seaboard strong holds, western forts and attacks on frontier settlements. It also included attacks on indian borders.
The first war was King Williams War and was marked principally by frontier attacks on British colonies. Queen Anne's War corresponded to the War of the Spanish Succession and King Georges War was connect with the War of the Austrian Succession. The last and most important conflict which was simply called the French and Indian War, was linked to the Seven Years War. British captured French forts in the west while Lord Amherst captured Louisburg in 1758. Quebec fell to the British and the Treaty of Paris in 1763 ended French control in this area.
The Minnesota territory went to the United States after the Revolution. Later the western part was gained by inclusion in the Louisiana Purchase. After the War of 1812 settlement was spurred by the American Fur Company and treaties with the indians. Settlers slowly began moving into the region. Minnesota officially became a territory in 1849.
The Soo Ship Canal in Michigan opened water routes from shipping to the east in 1855 creating new trade for the Minnesota territory. After years of problems with indian attacks and raids, the Sioux uprisings during and after the Civil war ended with the defeat of the Sioux band by H. H. Sibley. Again an influx of settlers began moving to the territory. Immigrants came, especially Scandinavians, bringing with them their knowledge of lumbering and growing wheat. With the discovery of iron mines the area prospered.
Minnesota became the 32nd state to be admitted to the Union in 1858. Today it covers an area of 84,068 square miles. The Capitol is Saint Paul. Minnesota has more than 11,000 lakes and many rivers. Because of this it is the watershed for a three river systems including Hudson Bay, the Great Lakes and the Saint Lawrence River, as well as, the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. The state has pine wilderness in the north with worn mountains in the northeast, with prairies in the south and west. The State Bird is the Common Loon and the State Flower is the Pink and White Lady's Slipper.
Minnesota has more than 11,000 lakes and many rivers. Learn the exciting facts about how it became a state. French fur traders came to the Minnesota area in the late 17th century. Shortly after this, explorers and missionaries of New France followed. The eastern part of Minnesota was in the Northwest Territory and went to Britain after the French and Indian wars of 1763. This was the name given to the North American colonial wars between England and France late in the 17th century. The ultimate aim of these wars was domination of the eastern part of the continent. The wars were marked by the capture of seaboard strong holds, western forts and attacks on frontier settlements. It also included attacks on indian borders.
The first war was King Williams War and was marked principally by frontier attacks on British colonies. Queen Anne's War corresponded to the War of the Spanish Succession and King Georges War was connect with the War of the Austrian Succession. The last and most important conflict which was simply called the French and Indian War, was linked to the Seven Years War. British captured French forts in the west while Lord Amherst captured Louisburg in 1758. Quebec fell to the British and the Treaty of Paris in 1763 ended French control in this area.
The Minnesota territory went to the United States after the Revolution. Later the western part was gained by inclusion in the Louisiana Purchase. After the War of 1812 settlement was spurred by the American Fur Company and treaties with the indians. Settlers slowly began moving into the region. Minnesota officially became a territory in 1849.
The Soo Ship Canal in Michigan opened water routes from shipping to the east in 1855 creating new trade for the Minnesota territory. After years of problems with indian attacks and raids, the Sioux uprisings during and after the Civil war ended with the defeat of the Sioux band by H. H. Sibley. Again an influx of settlers began moving to the territory. Immigrants came, especially Scandinavians, bringing with them their knowledge of lumbering and growing wheat. With the discovery of iron mines the area prospered.
Minnesota became the 32nd state to be admitted to the Union in 1858. Today it covers an area of 84,068 square miles. The Capitol is Saint Paul. Minnesota has more than 11,000 lakes and many rivers. Because of this it is the watershed for a three river systems including Hudson Bay, the Great Lakes and the Saint Lawrence River, as well as, the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. The state has pine wilderness in the north with worn mountains in the northeast, with prairies in the south and west. The State Bird is the Common Loon and the State Flower is the Pink and White Lady's Slipper.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Maine State
Maine State
Maine state was sold to Massachusetts by King George's heirs and the region was set up as admiralty district of Massachusetts. Learn why!
The first explorers to see the region we now know as the state of Maine were French. Finding the region rich in wild game and accessible waterways, short lived colonies were established by the French at the St. Croix River mouth in 1604 and 1605. A short time later British settlements were established at Kennebee River mouth in 1607 and 1608. Further French attempts to settle were prevented by Sir Samuel Argall, who destroyed the colony on Mount Desert Island in 1613. Sir Ferdinando Gorges attempted to build settlements after recieving a grant in 1622 and again after recieving a royal charter in 1639.
Maine was sold to Massachusetts by King George's heirs in 1677 and the region was set up as admiralty district of Massachusetts in 1775. The territory turned from commerce to industry through disturbances of Embargo Act of 1807 and War of 1812. The Embargo Act was passed by the United States Congress in answer to British orders in council restricting neutral shipping and to Napoleon's opposing the Continental System. It forbade all international trade to and from American ports in an attempt to persuade England and France of the value and rights of a neutral commerce. In 1809, prohibition was extended to inland waters and land commerce to halt trade with Canada, England and France.
Maine was admitted as the 23rd state through the Missouri Compromise which was measures passed by the United States Congress to end the first of a series of crises concerning extension of slavery into national territory. They provided that Maine would enter the Union as a free state. The area thrived on timber trade and shipbuilding after the Northeast Boundary Dispute was ended by Webster-Ashburton Treaty of 1842. Maine was the first state to have prohibition law in 1846-1934. The state has retained it's down east individualism and charm despite a trend toward industrilization and urban life. Maine was the first U. S. State to create wilderness waterway at Allagash Wilderness Waterway in 1966. The Capitol of Maine is Augusta. The State Bird is the Chickadee and the State Flower is the White Pine Cone and Tassel.
Maine state was sold to Massachusetts by King George's heirs and the region was set up as admiralty district of Massachusetts. Learn why!
The first explorers to see the region we now know as the state of Maine were French. Finding the region rich in wild game and accessible waterways, short lived colonies were established by the French at the St. Croix River mouth in 1604 and 1605. A short time later British settlements were established at Kennebee River mouth in 1607 and 1608. Further French attempts to settle were prevented by Sir Samuel Argall, who destroyed the colony on Mount Desert Island in 1613. Sir Ferdinando Gorges attempted to build settlements after recieving a grant in 1622 and again after recieving a royal charter in 1639.
Maine was sold to Massachusetts by King George's heirs in 1677 and the region was set up as admiralty district of Massachusetts in 1775. The territory turned from commerce to industry through disturbances of Embargo Act of 1807 and War of 1812. The Embargo Act was passed by the United States Congress in answer to British orders in council restricting neutral shipping and to Napoleon's opposing the Continental System. It forbade all international trade to and from American ports in an attempt to persuade England and France of the value and rights of a neutral commerce. In 1809, prohibition was extended to inland waters and land commerce to halt trade with Canada, England and France.
Maine was admitted as the 23rd state through the Missouri Compromise which was measures passed by the United States Congress to end the first of a series of crises concerning extension of slavery into national territory. They provided that Maine would enter the Union as a free state. The area thrived on timber trade and shipbuilding after the Northeast Boundary Dispute was ended by Webster-Ashburton Treaty of 1842. Maine was the first state to have prohibition law in 1846-1934. The state has retained it's down east individualism and charm despite a trend toward industrilization and urban life. Maine was the first U. S. State to create wilderness waterway at Allagash Wilderness Waterway in 1966. The Capitol of Maine is Augusta. The State Bird is the Chickadee and the State Flower is the White Pine Cone and Tassel.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Louisiana State Capitol History
Louisiana State Capitol History
The Lousiana state capitol is the tallest state capitol building in the country, and it's seen the likes of Huey Long. You can't miss this historic monument when you visit Louisiana's capital city.
If you are visiting Baton Rouge, you cannot miss the State Capitol, literally. By law, it is the tallest building in the city, easily visible from nearly every part of town. It stands 450 feet high, with 34 floors. While it is a place of work for hundreds of state legislators and state employees, it is also a wonderful tourist attraction.
The History
As the Capitol City, Baton Rouge does have a Capitol building, but it surely would not be what it is today without Governor Huey P. Long. Long was Louisiana's Governor during the depression. He was known as a governor who would fight for the poor man. His motto was, "every man a king." In the 30's, Huey Long called a special session to ask legislators to fund a new building. The first vote failed. But, Long quickly convinced enough legislators a new building was needed, and the second vote passed. Legislators approved a five-million-dollar plan. Sadly, it would be the site of Huey Long's assassination three years after its completion.
The Architecture, Outside
Considering the magnitude of the building and the detail in the design, it is amazing the Capitol was built in 14 months. Architects ordered marble from Vermont and Italy and awaited its arrival in rail cars. Other than its height, the structure is probably best known for its staircase, leading to the front doors. In each of the 48 steps is etched the name of the states, in the order they joined the union. Alaska and Hawaii were added to the top step, after their admittance.
The Architecture, Inside
One of the first things you will see when entering the State Capitol is the large bronze map on the floor. It is a map showing the 64 parishes that make Louisiana. Parishes are like counties in other states. The map displays many of the resources and products different regions have and produce. Just to your left, or to the West, is the Senate chamber, to your right, the House. Even if legislators are in session, you will at least want to approach the chamber doors. Even if they are closed, you can marvel at the bronze doors, which weigh a ton each. Engraved on both are depictions of what life was like in colonial Louisiana.
The View
Whatever you do when you are at the Capitol, you must go up to see the view. On the 27th floor is an observation deck. The view of Baton Rouge, the Mississippi River, and Port Allen are amazing. Port Allen is a city on the western side of the river from Baton Rouge. Do not forget to take your camera for this. If for some reason you do, don't worry, this is also the floor where you can find a gift shop.
The Grounds
From the observation deck, you can see the size of the Capitol grounds. The Capitol is built on 27 acres, much of it beautiful gardens. Feel free to sit on the benches and enjoy lunch; everything is open to the public. You can also visit the Arsenal, just to the east of the Capitol, or the Pentagon Barracks, just to the west. Both are historic structures dating back to the 1800's. Also on the grounds, in front of the Capitol, is Huey P. Long's grave site and memorial.
The Museums
An informal museum is on the first floor of the Capitol, in the corridor where Huey P. Long was assassinated. A plaque marks the place he was shot. There are also glass cases with memorabilia, including photographs, newspaper articles, even a gun. While the official report says Long was assassinated by a Louisiana doctor, there are many conspiracy theories. You will have fun reading about many of them on the walls where the incident occurred. Long was shot September 8, 1935.
Another museum honoring Louisiana's culture is on the first floor. The Creole Folklife Exhibit has been a part of the Capitol since 1984. The exhibit highlights Louisiana's diverse culture. You might have heard of the terms "cajun" or "creole." While they might have new meanings today, they both originally describe the people of Louisiana. Cajuns were originally a group of Acadians from Nova Scotia who settled in South Louisiana. Creoles were originally the French and Spanish population. While the French language is still thriving in the area, the culture is diverse. People of many nationalities populated Louisiana, including the Germans, Italians, Irish, Native Americans, and Slavonians.
The Lousiana state capitol is the tallest state capitol building in the country, and it's seen the likes of Huey Long. You can't miss this historic monument when you visit Louisiana's capital city.
If you are visiting Baton Rouge, you cannot miss the State Capitol, literally. By law, it is the tallest building in the city, easily visible from nearly every part of town. It stands 450 feet high, with 34 floors. While it is a place of work for hundreds of state legislators and state employees, it is also a wonderful tourist attraction.
The History
As the Capitol City, Baton Rouge does have a Capitol building, but it surely would not be what it is today without Governor Huey P. Long. Long was Louisiana's Governor during the depression. He was known as a governor who would fight for the poor man. His motto was, "every man a king." In the 30's, Huey Long called a special session to ask legislators to fund a new building. The first vote failed. But, Long quickly convinced enough legislators a new building was needed, and the second vote passed. Legislators approved a five-million-dollar plan. Sadly, it would be the site of Huey Long's assassination three years after its completion.
The Architecture, Outside
Considering the magnitude of the building and the detail in the design, it is amazing the Capitol was built in 14 months. Architects ordered marble from Vermont and Italy and awaited its arrival in rail cars. Other than its height, the structure is probably best known for its staircase, leading to the front doors. In each of the 48 steps is etched the name of the states, in the order they joined the union. Alaska and Hawaii were added to the top step, after their admittance.
The Architecture, Inside
One of the first things you will see when entering the State Capitol is the large bronze map on the floor. It is a map showing the 64 parishes that make Louisiana. Parishes are like counties in other states. The map displays many of the resources and products different regions have and produce. Just to your left, or to the West, is the Senate chamber, to your right, the House. Even if legislators are in session, you will at least want to approach the chamber doors. Even if they are closed, you can marvel at the bronze doors, which weigh a ton each. Engraved on both are depictions of what life was like in colonial Louisiana.
The View
Whatever you do when you are at the Capitol, you must go up to see the view. On the 27th floor is an observation deck. The view of Baton Rouge, the Mississippi River, and Port Allen are amazing. Port Allen is a city on the western side of the river from Baton Rouge. Do not forget to take your camera for this. If for some reason you do, don't worry, this is also the floor where you can find a gift shop.
The Grounds
From the observation deck, you can see the size of the Capitol grounds. The Capitol is built on 27 acres, much of it beautiful gardens. Feel free to sit on the benches and enjoy lunch; everything is open to the public. You can also visit the Arsenal, just to the east of the Capitol, or the Pentagon Barracks, just to the west. Both are historic structures dating back to the 1800's. Also on the grounds, in front of the Capitol, is Huey P. Long's grave site and memorial.
The Museums
An informal museum is on the first floor of the Capitol, in the corridor where Huey P. Long was assassinated. A plaque marks the place he was shot. There are also glass cases with memorabilia, including photographs, newspaper articles, even a gun. While the official report says Long was assassinated by a Louisiana doctor, there are many conspiracy theories. You will have fun reading about many of them on the walls where the incident occurred. Long was shot September 8, 1935.
Another museum honoring Louisiana's culture is on the first floor. The Creole Folklife Exhibit has been a part of the Capitol since 1984. The exhibit highlights Louisiana's diverse culture. You might have heard of the terms "cajun" or "creole." While they might have new meanings today, they both originally describe the people of Louisiana. Cajuns were originally a group of Acadians from Nova Scotia who settled in South Louisiana. Creoles were originally the French and Spanish population. While the French language is still thriving in the area, the culture is diverse. People of many nationalities populated Louisiana, including the Germans, Italians, Irish, Native Americans, and Slavonians.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Indiana State History
Indiana State History
Summary of Indiana state history, including first exploration by the French. Learn how it became a state. A major transportation complex of the midwest, the territory that is now known as Indiana was first explored by the French. Mostly fur traders, they established the first permanent settlement at Vincennes in 1702. The settlement located in south western Indiana on the Wabash River quickly grew to be a city. It was fortified in 1732 and then occupied by the British in 1763. In 1779 it was captured in a revolution by G. R. Clark and became a territory of the United States. It later became the capitol of the Indiana territory in 1800 through 1813.
When the Indiana Territory was established in 1800, the process of subduing the indians continued through the indecisive battle of Tippiconoe in 1811 under W. H. Harrison. This area was a river rising in the lake district of north east Indiana that flows 200 miles south west to the Wabash River above Lafayette. Immigration swelled after virtual dispossession of indians following War of 1812 and in 1816 Indiana became the 16th state admitted to the Union.
The Panic of 1837, which hurt Indiana badly, was the result of reckless speculation. In the south the price of cotton fell by almost one half on the New Orleans market. In New York there were demonstrations by the unemployed. Protesting against high rents and the inflated prices of food stuff as well as fuel, a mob broke into the city's flour warehouses and sacked the supplies. New York banks suspended special payments and were followed by banks from Baltimore, Philadelphia and Boston. The sale of public land fell and the effects of the panic persisted until 1942, particularly in the southern and western states.
Indiana supported the Union in Civil War despite activities of Knights of The Golden Circle. This was a secret order of Southern sympathizers in the north during the war. The first castle for this group was established in 1854 in Cincinnati. They were active in Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Missouri and Indiana. Most of the membership were Peace Democrats who were opposed to war and the increasing federal power.
Rapid rise of industry in the 19th century found farmers and laborers fighting for their rights. Indiana was benefited by opening of the Saint Lawrence Seaway and Power Project in 1959. Today Indiana covers an area of 36,291 square miles. The Capitol is Indianapolis. The State Bird is the Cardinal and the State Flower is the Peony.
Summary of Indiana state history, including first exploration by the French. Learn how it became a state. A major transportation complex of the midwest, the territory that is now known as Indiana was first explored by the French. Mostly fur traders, they established the first permanent settlement at Vincennes in 1702. The settlement located in south western Indiana on the Wabash River quickly grew to be a city. It was fortified in 1732 and then occupied by the British in 1763. In 1779 it was captured in a revolution by G. R. Clark and became a territory of the United States. It later became the capitol of the Indiana territory in 1800 through 1813.
When the Indiana Territory was established in 1800, the process of subduing the indians continued through the indecisive battle of Tippiconoe in 1811 under W. H. Harrison. This area was a river rising in the lake district of north east Indiana that flows 200 miles south west to the Wabash River above Lafayette. Immigration swelled after virtual dispossession of indians following War of 1812 and in 1816 Indiana became the 16th state admitted to the Union.
The Panic of 1837, which hurt Indiana badly, was the result of reckless speculation. In the south the price of cotton fell by almost one half on the New Orleans market. In New York there were demonstrations by the unemployed. Protesting against high rents and the inflated prices of food stuff as well as fuel, a mob broke into the city's flour warehouses and sacked the supplies. New York banks suspended special payments and were followed by banks from Baltimore, Philadelphia and Boston. The sale of public land fell and the effects of the panic persisted until 1942, particularly in the southern and western states.
Indiana supported the Union in Civil War despite activities of Knights of The Golden Circle. This was a secret order of Southern sympathizers in the north during the war. The first castle for this group was established in 1854 in Cincinnati. They were active in Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Missouri and Indiana. Most of the membership were Peace Democrats who were opposed to war and the increasing federal power.
Rapid rise of industry in the 19th century found farmers and laborers fighting for their rights. Indiana was benefited by opening of the Saint Lawrence Seaway and Power Project in 1959. Today Indiana covers an area of 36,291 square miles. The Capitol is Indianapolis. The State Bird is the Cardinal and the State Flower is the Peony.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Illinois State History
Illinois State History
Learn the exciting facts about how Illinois became a state from discovery admission to the Union. What is now known as the state of Illinois was first explored by French explorers Marquette and Joilliet, who discovered the upper Mississippi River area in 1673. Six years later the area was reached by the La Salle expedition in 1679. The area was found favorable for many reasons and a French mission was established in 1699 on the Mississippi River just below the East Saint Louis River. The settlement was named Cahokia for a tribe of Illinois indians that were served by the French missionaries. This was the first permanent settlement and became one of the chief French centers in the upper Mississippi valley.
The Illinois territory was passed to the British after last French and Indian War in 1763. It was won by the United States in the American Revolution after G. R. Clark captured Cahokia and Kaskaskia in 1778. Clark, an American revolutionary general, conquered the old northwest and eventually led expeditions against the indians in what is now Ohio. His brother, William Clark, was a leader of the Lewis and Clark expedition and later served as the governor of Missouri. As part of the Northwest Territory, Illinois began attracting settlers and became a separate territory in 1809. Admitted as the 21st state in 1818, Illinois quickly became an important faction in the growth of the United States.
Land speculations and mob fury brought about when American abolitionist Elijah P. Lovejoy, who edited the Observer in Alton, Illinois, was killed defending the press against a mob on November 7, 1837. His martyrdom advanced the abolitionist cause. A move to Nauvoo, Illinois by Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and his group was met with disaffection and trouble with non-Mormans led to his arrest on charges of treason. On June 27, 1844, both Smith and his brother Hyrum were murdered by a mob at Carthage, Illinois.
C. H. McCormick, the inventor of the reaper, added to the growth trend of Illinois when he built a Chicago factory in 1847. By 1834 McCormicks reaper was known throughout Europe and although other reapers were introduced, McCormick kept his in the running with his unusual business ability. The building of railroads in the 1850s marked the rise of the state. Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas won national attention by their debates on slavery issues in 1858 and a tremendous industrial expansion followed the Civil War. Farmers in the Illinois area joined the Granger Movement to resist domination of and by the railroads. Labor unrest was shown by the Haymarket Square Riot in 1886 and at Pullman in 1894. The opening of Saint Lawrence Seaway and Power Project in 1959 made Chicago a major overseas shipping port. Today, the state covers 56,400 square miles and the Capitol is Springfield. Illinois is a region of well watered lanes and a major transportation center of the midwest. The State Bird is the Cardinal and the State Flower is the Purple Violet.
Learn the exciting facts about how Illinois became a state from discovery admission to the Union. What is now known as the state of Illinois was first explored by French explorers Marquette and Joilliet, who discovered the upper Mississippi River area in 1673. Six years later the area was reached by the La Salle expedition in 1679. The area was found favorable for many reasons and a French mission was established in 1699 on the Mississippi River just below the East Saint Louis River. The settlement was named Cahokia for a tribe of Illinois indians that were served by the French missionaries. This was the first permanent settlement and became one of the chief French centers in the upper Mississippi valley.
The Illinois territory was passed to the British after last French and Indian War in 1763. It was won by the United States in the American Revolution after G. R. Clark captured Cahokia and Kaskaskia in 1778. Clark, an American revolutionary general, conquered the old northwest and eventually led expeditions against the indians in what is now Ohio. His brother, William Clark, was a leader of the Lewis and Clark expedition and later served as the governor of Missouri. As part of the Northwest Territory, Illinois began attracting settlers and became a separate territory in 1809. Admitted as the 21st state in 1818, Illinois quickly became an important faction in the growth of the United States.
Land speculations and mob fury brought about when American abolitionist Elijah P. Lovejoy, who edited the Observer in Alton, Illinois, was killed defending the press against a mob on November 7, 1837. His martyrdom advanced the abolitionist cause. A move to Nauvoo, Illinois by Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and his group was met with disaffection and trouble with non-Mormans led to his arrest on charges of treason. On June 27, 1844, both Smith and his brother Hyrum were murdered by a mob at Carthage, Illinois.
C. H. McCormick, the inventor of the reaper, added to the growth trend of Illinois when he built a Chicago factory in 1847. By 1834 McCormicks reaper was known throughout Europe and although other reapers were introduced, McCormick kept his in the running with his unusual business ability. The building of railroads in the 1850s marked the rise of the state. Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas won national attention by their debates on slavery issues in 1858 and a tremendous industrial expansion followed the Civil War. Farmers in the Illinois area joined the Granger Movement to resist domination of and by the railroads. Labor unrest was shown by the Haymarket Square Riot in 1886 and at Pullman in 1894. The opening of Saint Lawrence Seaway and Power Project in 1959 made Chicago a major overseas shipping port. Today, the state covers 56,400 square miles and the Capitol is Springfield. Illinois is a region of well watered lanes and a major transportation center of the midwest. The State Bird is the Cardinal and the State Flower is the Purple Violet.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
California Statehood
California Statehood
Learn how a need for western expansion opened the California territory to statehood. California was first discovered and explored in 1542 by Juan R. Cabrillo , a Spanish conquistador. English navigator and admiral Sir Frances Drake, who began commanding marauding expeditions against the Spanish around 1572, explored parts of California in 1579. In 1602 Spanish explorer Sebastian Vizcaino discovered and named Monterey Bay while exploring the vast coastline. Spanish colonizing began in 1769 when Gaspar de Portola established a colony on San Diego Bay. A string of missions founded by the Franciscans followed and before long outsiders began to arrive by sea, as well as, over land.
Two main influences created a need for western expansion. The first was the idea that the center of world civilization was ever moving toward the setting sun. The second, that each frontier opened would repeat the social evolution of the entire human race. Thus, in 1803, Jefferson sent Lewis and Clark to explore the Pacific Northwest while expansionist advocated this movement in order to open a passage to India and complete the growth of civilization around the globe.
The first Americans came to the California territory in 1816, but the colonization of the area was largely Mexican through the 1840's. The last Mexican government was expelled from California in 1845. Under the influence of J. C. Fremont, an explorer, soldier and political leader, a republic was established in 1846. In 1848 the area was ceded to the United States in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
Gold was discovered in California in 1848 bringing a flood of emigrants from the east and other foreign nations. Instant cities arose, such as San Francisco which attracted 3 million people in little more than two decades. This spurred the economy and inspired projects for transcontinental telegraph lines and railroad tracks.
In 1850 California became the 31st state admitted to the Union. A settlement founded in 1848 called Sacramento became the capitol. Between 1870 and 1900 masses of people moved west. Many moved to California for their health. The striking topographical areas and climatic contrast was of great attraction to settlers. By 1890 the early mining bonanza had ended. The boom had produce billions of dollars to boost the economy, help finance the Civil War and provide capital for industrialization.
The people who had moved west transformed American agriculture. California sent fruit, wine and wheat to eastern markets. Asian, European and Latin American immigrants added talent and diversity to the entire state. Today the 158,693 square mile coastal state is the third largest in the United States. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the west, California houses giant redwoods in the north and leads all other states in the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. The State Flower of California is the Golden Poppy and the State Bird is the California Valley Quail.
Learn how a need for western expansion opened the California territory to statehood. California was first discovered and explored in 1542 by Juan R. Cabrillo , a Spanish conquistador. English navigator and admiral Sir Frances Drake, who began commanding marauding expeditions against the Spanish around 1572, explored parts of California in 1579. In 1602 Spanish explorer Sebastian Vizcaino discovered and named Monterey Bay while exploring the vast coastline. Spanish colonizing began in 1769 when Gaspar de Portola established a colony on San Diego Bay. A string of missions founded by the Franciscans followed and before long outsiders began to arrive by sea, as well as, over land.
Two main influences created a need for western expansion. The first was the idea that the center of world civilization was ever moving toward the setting sun. The second, that each frontier opened would repeat the social evolution of the entire human race. Thus, in 1803, Jefferson sent Lewis and Clark to explore the Pacific Northwest while expansionist advocated this movement in order to open a passage to India and complete the growth of civilization around the globe.
The first Americans came to the California territory in 1816, but the colonization of the area was largely Mexican through the 1840's. The last Mexican government was expelled from California in 1845. Under the influence of J. C. Fremont, an explorer, soldier and political leader, a republic was established in 1846. In 1848 the area was ceded to the United States in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
Gold was discovered in California in 1848 bringing a flood of emigrants from the east and other foreign nations. Instant cities arose, such as San Francisco which attracted 3 million people in little more than two decades. This spurred the economy and inspired projects for transcontinental telegraph lines and railroad tracks.
In 1850 California became the 31st state admitted to the Union. A settlement founded in 1848 called Sacramento became the capitol. Between 1870 and 1900 masses of people moved west. Many moved to California for their health. The striking topographical areas and climatic contrast was of great attraction to settlers. By 1890 the early mining bonanza had ended. The boom had produce billions of dollars to boost the economy, help finance the Civil War and provide capital for industrialization.
The people who had moved west transformed American agriculture. California sent fruit, wine and wheat to eastern markets. Asian, European and Latin American immigrants added talent and diversity to the entire state. Today the 158,693 square mile coastal state is the third largest in the United States. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the west, California houses giant redwoods in the north and leads all other states in the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. The State Flower of California is the Golden Poppy and the State Bird is the California Valley Quail.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Colorado State History
Colorado State History
Summary of Colorado's state history, including detail on early explorers of the Colorado territory. The Colorado territories area north of the Arkansas River and east of the Rockies came to the United States in the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The Colorado territory was first penetrated by the French, Spanish and Mountain Men, but became known mainly through explorations of Z. M. Pike, S. H. Long, J. C. Fremont.
Zebulon Montgomery Pike was an American explorer and an army officer. He led expeditions in 1806 through 1807 in the south west and on into Colorado where he founded Pikes Peak. Pike also wrote valuable narratives of his travels. Stephen Harriman Long was an American explorer who explored the upper Mississippi region and the Rocky Mountains from 1817 through 1820. John Charles Fremont was an American explorer, soldier and political leader. His enthusiastic reports of explorations in the west did much to publicize that region.
With silver production in Leadville, Colorado at its peak in 1830, the remainder of the territory was gained by the United States from Mexico in 1848 and Texas in 1850. Wave after wave of newcomers began moving west around 1850. With all the gold and land bonanzas an uneven growth was created in the West. One of the most spectacular examples on the instant cities being built was Denver, in the Colorado territory. In 1858 the opening of the mining frontier following the discovery of gold in Colorado, Nevada and British Columbia yielded $300 million in gold and silver over a 20 year period. In 1859 the establishment of the Leavenworth and Pikes Peak Express, a stage line company operating between Leavenworth and Denver aided settlement in the Colorado area. Colorado boomed with discovery of gold in 1859. Fresh strikes made near Pikes Peak set off will migrations and over 100,000 miners were in that area of Colorado by June. Although the gold quickly played out, this was the time of boom or bust and new strikes were being discovered every day.
These strikes brought a new influx of miners to the Colorado territory. Even with this and the passing of the Homestead Act, settlers and farmers were not moving to the territory. Few farmers and laborers had the cash to move to the frontier, buy farm equipment, and wait out the year or tow before the farm became self supporting. In an attempt to bring settlers to the Colorado area when it was discovered that the Homestead Act fell short of their goal Congress made adjustments to the act. Speculators made ingenious use of the new land laws. One Colorado cattleman, John F. Iliff, owned only 105 small parcels of land, but by placing them around the few available water holes, he effectively dominated an empire stretching over 6,000 square miles.
Mining in region declined and boomed again with discovery of silver in 1875. Colorado became the 38th state admitted to the union in 1876. A Rocky Mountain State crossed by the Continental Divide with plains in the eastern part, its Capitol is Denver. The State Flower is the Rocky Mountain Columbine and the State Bird is the Lark Bunting.
Summary of Colorado's state history, including detail on early explorers of the Colorado territory. The Colorado territories area north of the Arkansas River and east of the Rockies came to the United States in the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The Colorado territory was first penetrated by the French, Spanish and Mountain Men, but became known mainly through explorations of Z. M. Pike, S. H. Long, J. C. Fremont.
Zebulon Montgomery Pike was an American explorer and an army officer. He led expeditions in 1806 through 1807 in the south west and on into Colorado where he founded Pikes Peak. Pike also wrote valuable narratives of his travels. Stephen Harriman Long was an American explorer who explored the upper Mississippi region and the Rocky Mountains from 1817 through 1820. John Charles Fremont was an American explorer, soldier and political leader. His enthusiastic reports of explorations in the west did much to publicize that region.
With silver production in Leadville, Colorado at its peak in 1830, the remainder of the territory was gained by the United States from Mexico in 1848 and Texas in 1850. Wave after wave of newcomers began moving west around 1850. With all the gold and land bonanzas an uneven growth was created in the West. One of the most spectacular examples on the instant cities being built was Denver, in the Colorado territory. In 1858 the opening of the mining frontier following the discovery of gold in Colorado, Nevada and British Columbia yielded $300 million in gold and silver over a 20 year period. In 1859 the establishment of the Leavenworth and Pikes Peak Express, a stage line company operating between Leavenworth and Denver aided settlement in the Colorado area. Colorado boomed with discovery of gold in 1859. Fresh strikes made near Pikes Peak set off will migrations and over 100,000 miners were in that area of Colorado by June. Although the gold quickly played out, this was the time of boom or bust and new strikes were being discovered every day.
These strikes brought a new influx of miners to the Colorado territory. Even with this and the passing of the Homestead Act, settlers and farmers were not moving to the territory. Few farmers and laborers had the cash to move to the frontier, buy farm equipment, and wait out the year or tow before the farm became self supporting. In an attempt to bring settlers to the Colorado area when it was discovered that the Homestead Act fell short of their goal Congress made adjustments to the act. Speculators made ingenious use of the new land laws. One Colorado cattleman, John F. Iliff, owned only 105 small parcels of land, but by placing them around the few available water holes, he effectively dominated an empire stretching over 6,000 square miles.
Mining in region declined and boomed again with discovery of silver in 1875. Colorado became the 38th state admitted to the union in 1876. A Rocky Mountain State crossed by the Continental Divide with plains in the eastern part, its Capitol is Denver. The State Flower is the Rocky Mountain Columbine and the State Bird is the Lark Bunting.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Alaska State History
Alaska State History
Summary of Alaska's state history - learn how this wildly, beautiful region became part of the United States. The first men to reach Alaska were from Russia. Vitus Bering and Aleksey Chirikov founded the barren and frozen region in 1741. Russian fur traders followed the explorers and established make shift camps. Grigori Shelekohv founded the first permanent settlement on Kodiak Island in 1784. From 1700 to 1817 the area was dominated by Aleksandr Baranov, who extended fur trade south to California.
The British American conflict ended in negotiated settlement of the southern boundary in 1824. The United States purchased Alaska in 1867 through the efforts of W. H Seward. Secretary of State Seward, who served from 1861 to 1869, aggressively pushed and expansive foreign policy. He developed a vision of an American empire stretching south in Latin America and west to the shores of Asia. Seward wanted Canada and Mexico, islands in the Caribbean as strategic bases to protect a canal across the isthmus, and Hawaii as well as other islands as stepping stones to Asia. After trying unsuccessfully to negotiate a commercial treaty with Hawaii in 1867, the same year he annexed the Midway islands, he concluded a treaty with Russia for the purchase of Alaska partly to sandwich western Canada between American territory and lead to its annexation.
The first government was established in 1884 after gold was discovered in Juneau area. Gold strikes, including one in Nome in 1899 and Fairbanks in 1902 followed the 1896 Klondike strike and brought prospectors and adventurers to the area. The boundaries for Alaska were set in 1903.
Several islands owned by the USSR and United States near the Bering Straits created voyages that revealed a fur seal wealth. From the mid 18th century the unregulated slaughter of the animals soon threatened their extinction. Protection of the seals became the subject of the Bering Sea Fur-Seal Controversy in 1886. An international dispute broke out over open sea sealing and in 1893 a Court of arbitration declared against the United States claim to control all of the Bering Sea. Damages were paid to seized Canadian vessels and an international agreement gave the United States supervision of seal summering places in the Pribilof Islands. The agreement prohibited pelagic sealing and forbade altogether the killing of sea otters. For several years sealing stopped all together, but later resumed under careful restrictions. The Bering Sea Fur-Seal Controversy was settled in 1911. Alaska became part of the United States territory in 1912.
The Alaska area was strategic in Second World War. Improved transportation, defense bases and successful arctic farming have contributed to its rapid development. Alaska became the 49th state to join the Union in 1959. The Capitol is Juneau. Severe earthquakes in 1964 devastated a broad area of the state. The State Bird is the Willow Ptarmigan and the State Flower is the Forget Me Not.
Summary of Alaska's state history - learn how this wildly, beautiful region became part of the United States. The first men to reach Alaska were from Russia. Vitus Bering and Aleksey Chirikov founded the barren and frozen region in 1741. Russian fur traders followed the explorers and established make shift camps. Grigori Shelekohv founded the first permanent settlement on Kodiak Island in 1784. From 1700 to 1817 the area was dominated by Aleksandr Baranov, who extended fur trade south to California.
The British American conflict ended in negotiated settlement of the southern boundary in 1824. The United States purchased Alaska in 1867 through the efforts of W. H Seward. Secretary of State Seward, who served from 1861 to 1869, aggressively pushed and expansive foreign policy. He developed a vision of an American empire stretching south in Latin America and west to the shores of Asia. Seward wanted Canada and Mexico, islands in the Caribbean as strategic bases to protect a canal across the isthmus, and Hawaii as well as other islands as stepping stones to Asia. After trying unsuccessfully to negotiate a commercial treaty with Hawaii in 1867, the same year he annexed the Midway islands, he concluded a treaty with Russia for the purchase of Alaska partly to sandwich western Canada between American territory and lead to its annexation.
The first government was established in 1884 after gold was discovered in Juneau area. Gold strikes, including one in Nome in 1899 and Fairbanks in 1902 followed the 1896 Klondike strike and brought prospectors and adventurers to the area. The boundaries for Alaska were set in 1903.
Several islands owned by the USSR and United States near the Bering Straits created voyages that revealed a fur seal wealth. From the mid 18th century the unregulated slaughter of the animals soon threatened their extinction. Protection of the seals became the subject of the Bering Sea Fur-Seal Controversy in 1886. An international dispute broke out over open sea sealing and in 1893 a Court of arbitration declared against the United States claim to control all of the Bering Sea. Damages were paid to seized Canadian vessels and an international agreement gave the United States supervision of seal summering places in the Pribilof Islands. The agreement prohibited pelagic sealing and forbade altogether the killing of sea otters. For several years sealing stopped all together, but later resumed under careful restrictions. The Bering Sea Fur-Seal Controversy was settled in 1911. Alaska became part of the United States territory in 1912.
The Alaska area was strategic in Second World War. Improved transportation, defense bases and successful arctic farming have contributed to its rapid development. Alaska became the 49th state to join the Union in 1959. The Capitol is Juneau. Severe earthquakes in 1964 devastated a broad area of the state. The State Bird is the Willow Ptarmigan and the State Flower is the Forget Me Not.
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