Nebraska

• 1541: Spanish explorer Francisco Vázquez de Coronado explores the region of present-day Nebraska.
• 1803: The United States acquires the land as part of the Louisiana Purchase.
• 1820: The first permanent white settlement, known as Fort Lisa, is established by fur trader Manuel Lisa near present-day Omaha.
• 1854: The Kansas-Nebraska Act is passed, organizing the Nebraska Territory and opening it for settlement. This act also allows for popular sovereignty, meaning that settlers can decide whether to allow slavery in the territory.
• 1867: Nebraska becomes the 37th state of the United States.
• 1869: The completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad at Promontory Summit, Utah, connects Nebraska to the rest of the country and boosts the state's economic growth.
• 1872: Arbor Day, a holiday dedicated to tree planting, is first celebrated in Nebraska, thanks to the efforts of Julius Sterling Morton.
• 1887: The Dawes Act is passed, leading to the division of Native American tribal lands into individual plots and the opening of reservations for white settlement.
• 1920s: Nebraska experiences an agricultural boom, with advancements in irrigation and mechanization leading to increased crop production.
• 1930s: The Great Depression hits Nebraska hard, causing widespread unemployment, farm foreclosures, and economic hardships.
• 1954: The Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education declares racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional, leading to efforts to desegregate schools in Nebraska.
• 1970: Omaha hosts the first College World Series, an annual baseball tournament, which becomes a major sporting event in the state.
• 1997: The Nebraska Legislature abolishes the death penalty, but it is reinstated through a voter referendum in 2016.
• Today, Nebraska is known for its agricultural industry, including corn, soybeans, beef, and pork production. The state also has a strong university system and is home to notable attractions such as the Henry Doorly Zoo and the Chimney Rock National Historic Site.

Nebraska's history unfolds across its vast landscapes. From Native American cultures to pioneer trails and agricultural development, the state's past is intertwined with resilience and growth. Nebraska played a vital role in westward expansion, with the iconic Oregon Trail and Pony Express passing through its plains. Its rich farming heritage and dedication to agricultural innovation have shaped the state's identity. Today, Nebraska welcomes visitors with its charming small towns, wide-open spaces, and enduring pioneer spirit. Explore the history and natural beauty of Nebraska, where the past meets endless horizons.