Nevada

In Nevada, you know, there's no shortage of sunshine.
Harry Reid in Speech at the dedication of Apex Industrial Park in North Las Vegas, 2006
Nevada, located in the western United States, has a rich history shaped by indigenous populations such as the Paiute, Shoshone, and Washoe tribes. Explored by Spanish explorers in the 18th century, it became part of Mexican and then American territory through the 19th century. The discovery of silver in the mid-1800s sparked a mining boom, leading to the establishment of cities like Virginia City. In 1864, Nevada gained statehood, partly due to its silver resources and support for the Union during the Civil War. The construction of the Hoover Dam during the Great Depression provided jobs and electricity, marking a significant developmental phase. The state's association with entertainment and gambling flourished with the rise of Las Vegas in the mid-20th century, transforming it into a global entertainment and tourism hub.
Brief timeline of the history of the state of Nevada:

  • 1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and Nevada becomes part of the Mexican territory of Alta California.
  • 1848: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the Mexican-American War, and Nevada becomes part of the United States as part of the newly acquired territory.
  • 1859: The Comstock Lode, a massive silver deposit, is discovered in western Nevada, leading to a silver rush and rapid population growth in the region.
  • 1861: Nevada becomes the 36th state of the United States, primarily to support the Union during the American Civil War and provide resources from the Comstock Lode.
  • 1864: The city of Virginia City, located near the Comstock Lode, becomes the capital of Nevada.
  • 1889: The state capital is moved from Virginia City to Carson City, where it remains today.
  • Early 20th century: Gambling and the gaming industry begin to flourish in Nevada, with the legalization of gambling in 1931.
  • 1935: The construction of Hoover Dam on the Colorado River begins, providing jobs and contributing to the economic development of the region.
  • 1947: The U.S. Air Force establishes Area 51, a top-secret military facility, in southern Nevada.
  • 1956: The construction of the Las Vegas Strip, a famous resort corridor with numerous casinos and hotels, transforms Las Vegas into a major tourist destination.
  • 1986: The controversial nuclear waste repository known as the Yucca Mountain Nuclear Waste Repository is proposed in Nevada but faces significant opposition from the state and environmental groups.
  • 1999: The Las Vegas Motor Speedway, a popular auto racing venue, opens in Las Vegas.
  • 2002: The Salt Lake City Winter Olympics features skiing and other events held in the mountains of Nevada.
  • Today, Nevada is known for its thriving tourism industry, centered around Las Vegas and its world-renowned entertainment, resorts, and casinos. The state also has a diverse geography, including the Mojave Desert, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and numerous natural attractions such as Lake Tahoe and Red Rock Canyon.