South Dakota

South Dakota is a hidden gem of the country.
Chuck Brennan in Argus Leader
South Dakota has a rich history. It is home to several Native American tribes, including the Lakota Sioux. The state witnessed significant events like the Black Hills Gold Rush and the Battle of Little Bighorn. Mount Rushmore, a famous national monument, showcases the faces of four American presidents. South Dakota also preserves the cultural heritage of Native American tribes through museums and annual powwows. Today, visitors can explore the state's history, enjoy its natural beauty, and experience the vibrant Native American culture that thrives in South Dakota.
Brief timeline of the history of the state of South Dakota:

  • 1743: French explorers Louis-Joseph and François La Vérendrye visit the region, becoming the first recorded Europeans to explore present-day South Dakota.
  • 1803: The land that would become South Dakota is acquired by the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase from France.
  • 1851: The United States signs the Treaty of Fort Laramie with various Native American tribes, establishing territories for tribes and facilitating travel and trade in the region.
  • 1859: The Yankton Sioux Reservation is established in southeastern South Dakota.
  • 1874: Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer leads a military expedition into the Black Hills of South Dakota, sparking the Black Hills Gold Rush.
  • 1877: The U.S. government confiscates the Black Hills from the Sioux Nation, a move later deemed illegal, leading to ongoing legal disputes and demands for compensation.
  • 1889: South Dakota becomes the 40th state of the United States.
  • 1890: The Wounded Knee Massacre takes place on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, marking a tragic event in the conflict between Native Americans and the U.S. government.
  • Early 20th century: Agriculture, particularly wheat farming, becomes a significant industry in South Dakota, with farmers adapting to the challenging climate and geography.
  • 1944: The construction of the Oahe Dam on the Missouri River begins, creating Lake Oahe and providing flood control, hydroelectric power, and water resources for the region.
  • 1980: Mount Rushmore National Memorial, featuring the carved faces of U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt, celebrates its 50th anniversary.
  • Late 20th century: South Dakota embraces tourism, promoting attractions such as the Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, and the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
  • Today, South Dakota is known for its rich Native American heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The state's economy is diverse, encompassing industries such as agriculture, tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing.