Nebraska

Nebraska
Name	Nebraska
Capital	Lincoln
Largest city	Omaha
Admission date	March 1, 1867
Admission rank	37th
Governor	Jim Pillen
Lieutenant governor	Joe Kelly
Legislature	Nebraska Legislature
U s senators	Deb Fischer (R), Pete Ricketts (R)
Population rank	37th
Population density sq mi	25.5
Area total sq mi	77,358
Area rank	16th

Nebraska. A state located in the Great Plains region of the Midwestern United States, it is bordered by South Dakota to the north, Iowa to the east, Missouri to the southeast, Kansas to the south, Colorado to the southwest, and Wyoming to the west. It was admitted to the Union as the 37th state on March 1, 1867, following its organization as a territory by the Kansas–Nebraska Act of 1854. The state is known for its vast agricultural production, unique political structure, and historical significance as part of the Oregon Trail and Homestead Act.

Geography

The landscape is dominated by the Central Lowland and the Great Plains, with the Sandhills region forming one of the largest grass-stabilized dune areas in the world. Major river systems include the broad Platte River, a vital corridor for westward migration and a key tributary of the Missouri River, which forms the state's eastern border. The Pine Ridge escarpment in the northwest and landmarks like Chimney Rock and Scotts Bluff are prominent geological features. The climate is classified as a humid continental climate with wide seasonal temperature variations, prone to severe weather including tornadoes and blizzards.

History

Historically home to indigenous tribes such as the Pawnee, Omaha, and Sioux, the area was claimed by both France and Spain before becoming part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through in 1804, and the region became a thoroughfare for settlers on the Mormon Trail, California Trail, and Pony Express. The establishment of Fort Kearny provided protection for migrants, while the Homestead Act of 1862 spurred permanent settlement. Conflict with Native American nations culminated in events like the Massacre Canyon battle. The late 19th century saw political upheaval with the rise of the Populist Party and figures like William Jennings Bryan.

Economy

Often called the "Cornhusker State," it is a national leader in agricultural production, particularly of corn, soybeans, beef cattle, and hogs. Major agribusiness corporations like ConAgra Brands and Cargill have significant operations, while Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing is a prominent manufacturer. The Union Pacific Railroad maintains major facilities in North Platte. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is a center for agricultural research, and the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum highlights the state's connection to the United States Air Force and Offutt Air Force Base.

Demographics

The population is concentrated in the eastern third, primarily in the metropolitan areas of Omaha and Lincoln. Significant ancestry groups include those of German, Irish, English, and Czech descent. The state has a growing Latino population, particularly in communities like South Sioux City and Lexington. The Omaha Nation and Winnebago Reservation are federally recognized tribal lands. Educational institutions include Creighton University and University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Culture

Cultural landmarks include the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, the Museum of American Speed in Lincoln, and the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer in Grand Island. The state is famous for its college football tradition with the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team playing at Memorial Stadium. The annual College World Series is held at Charles Schwab Field Omaha. Notable cultural figures include author Willa Cather, musician Conor Oberst, and investor Warren Buffett, who resides in Omaha and hosts the annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting.

Government and politics

It operates under a unicameral legislature, the only state in the U.S. to do so, officially nonpartisan but dominated by the Republican Party. The state's executive branch is led by the Governor, and its judiciary includes the Nebraska Supreme Court. In presidential elections, it is one of two states that allocates Electoral College votes by congressional district, a method that occasionally splits its vote. Notable political figures include former U.S. Senator Bob Kerrey and current Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts.

Category:Nebraska Category:States of the United States Category:1867 establishments in the United States