How Nebraska Became a State
Nebraska is one of the United States' most recognizable states, but its history is often overlooked. From its humble beginnings as part of the Louisiana Purchase to its eventual statehood, Nebraska has a long and fascinating history.
Pre-Statehood History
Early exploration and settlement
The first Europeans to explore the area now known as Nebraska were Spanish explorers in the late 1700s. They were followed by French fur traders who established trading posts in the area. In the early 1800s, the Lewis and Clark Expedition explored the region, and the first permanent settlers began to arrive in the 1820s. These settlers were mostly from the eastern United States, and they established small farms and ranches in the area. The settlers also brought with them their own culture and customs, which helped shape the development of Nebraska.
Development of government and infrastructure
As the population of Nebraska grew, the need for a government and infrastructure became apparent. The first territorial government was established in 1854, and the first state constitution was adopted in 1875. This constitution provided for a three-branch government, with an executive branch, a legislative branch, and a judicial branch. It also provided for the establishment of a public school system, and the development of roads and other infrastructure. In addition, the constitution provided for the protection of civil rights, and it established a system of taxation. After the adoption of the constitution, Nebraska was officially admitted to the Union in 1867.
The Movement for Statehood
Political and Economic Motivations
The movement for statehood in Nebraska was driven by a combination of political and economic motivations. Politically, Nebraska was part of the Louisiana Purchase, and had been a territory since 1854. As such, the citizens of Nebraska had no representation in the federal government, and felt that statehood was the only way to ensure their voices were heard. Economically, Nebraska was a largely agricultural state, and the citizens of Nebraska felt that statehood would provide them with the economic benefits of being part of the United States. This included access to federal funds and resources, as well as the ability to participate in interstate commerce.
Legislative Efforts to Achieve Statehood
In order to achieve statehood, Nebraska had to pass a state constitution and be admitted to the Union by Congress. To this end, the citizens of Nebraska formed a constitutional convention in 1866, which drafted a state constitution. This constitution was then approved by the citizens of Nebraska in a referendum, and was sent to Congress for approval. Congress approved the constitution in 1867, and Nebraska officially became the 37th state in the Union. Following statehood, the citizens of Nebraska were able to elect representatives to the federal government, and to take advantage of the economic benefits of being part of the United States.
In addition to the constitutional process, Nebraska also had to pass a number of legislative acts in order to become a state. This included the passage of a homestead act, which allowed citizens to claim land for farming, and the passage of a railroad act, which provided funds for the construction of railroads in the state. These acts were essential for the economic development of Nebraska, and helped to ensure the success of the state.
Finally, Nebraska had to pass a number of other laws in order to become a state. This included the passage of laws regulating banking, education, and taxation. These laws were essential for the economic and political stability of the state, and helped to ensure the success of Nebraska as a state.
