Oregon

• 10,000 BCE: Paleo-Indian cultures inhabit the region, hunting and gathering along the Columbia River and its tributaries.
• 1792: The British explorer Robert Gray becomes the first recorded European to sail into the Columbia River, claiming the area for the United States.
• 1805-1806: The Lewis and Clark Expedition, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, explores the Oregon region, mapping the area and establishing relations with Native American tribes.
• 1811: John Jacob Astor's Pacific Fur Company establishes Fort Astoria, the first permanent European-American settlement in Oregon.
• 1843: A group of pioneers, known as the "Great Migration of 1843," begins settling in the Willamette Valley, establishing the foundation for future settlements.
• 1846: The Oregon Treaty is signed between the United States and Britain, establishing the 49th parallel as the northern border between the United States and Canada and giving the majority of Oregon to the United States.
• 1859: Oregon becomes the 33rd state of the United States.
• Late 19th century: The discovery of gold and other natural resources in Oregon attracts prospectors and settlers to the region.
• 1887: The construction of the Oregon Railway and Navigation Company's railroad line connects Oregon to the transcontinental railroad network, boosting economic growth and facilitating transportation.
• Early 20th century: The construction of hydroelectric dams, including the Bonneville Dam on the Columbia River, provides electricity and supports the development of industry and agriculture in Oregon.
• 1937: The completion of the Historic Columbia River Highway, known for its scenic beauty and waterfalls, becomes a popular tourist attraction.
• 1971: The state of Oregon pioneers the Bottle Bill, becoming the first state in the United States to implement a bottle deposit system to encourage recycling.
• 1994: Oregon legalizes physician-assisted suicide, known as the Death with Dignity Act, becoming the first state to do so.
• Today, Oregon is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including Crater Lake National Park, Mount Hood, and the Oregon Coast. The state is also recognized for its progressive environmental policies, vibrant craft beer and wine industries, and cultural hubs like Portland.

Oregon has a captivating history rooted in exploration and westward expansion. Native American tribes, such as the Chinook and the Nez Perce, have inhabited the region for thousands of years. In the early 19th century, American and European explorers ventured to Oregon in search of new opportunities and resources. The Oregon Trail became a major route for pioneers seeking a better life during the mid-1800s. The state also played a significant role in the settlement of the western United States. Today, Oregon is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including Crater Lake and the Columbia River Gorge, as well as its vibrant cities like Portland. The state's history and breathtaking beauty make it a captivating destination for visitors.