Idaho’s Geography and Early Peoples

Idaho is known for its rugged mountains, vast forests, and scenic rivers. Long before European contact, Native American tribes such as the Shoshone, Nez Perce, and Coeur d'Alene lived in the region for thousands of years.

Exploration and Fur Trade

In 1811, French-Canadian explorer Francois Payette became the first European to explore Idaho. His journey opened the door for fur trappers and traders who established posts and small settlements across the land.

Gold Rush and Conflict

In the mid-1800s, the discovery of gold in Idaho attracted thousands of miners, settlers, and entrepreneurs to the region. The gold rush resulted in the rapid growth of settlements and towns, with Boise, the current capital of Idaho, becoming a major hub for miners and settlers. However, the influx of settlers also led to conflicts with the native tribes, resulting in the Nez Perce War of 1877, one of the most significant conflicts in Idaho's history.

Travelers along the Oregon Trail in Idaho

Becoming a State

Idaho was originally part of the Oregon Territory, but it became a separate territory in 1863, and it was admitted to the Union as the 43rd state on July 3, 1890. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Idaho's economy was based on mining, timber, and agriculture. The state was known for its rich mineral resources, including silver, gold, lead, and zinc, and its vast forests, which provided a wealth of timber and other resources.

Economic Struggles and Growth

In the 1930s, the Great Depression had a significant impact on Idaho's economy, and the state suffered from a severe drought, which resulted in the Dust Bowl. However, Idaho's economy rebounded during World War II, with the construction of military installations and the establishment of the Idaho National Laboratory, which became a major center for nuclear research and development.

Modern Idaho

Today, Idaho’s economy includes agriculture, manufacturing, high-tech industries, and tourism. Its mountains, rivers, and outdoor activities continue to attract visitors from across the country.

Discussion Questions

1. How did Idaho’s geography influence both Native life and later European settlement?
2. What role did the gold rush play in shaping Idaho’s growth and conflicts?
3. Why was the Nez Perce War significant in Idaho’s history?
4. How has Idaho’s economy changed from the 1800s to today?

Glossary

• Fur trappers: People who hunted animals for their pelts, often trading them for goods.
• Gold rush: A rapid movement of people to an area where gold has been discovered.
• Nez Perce War: A major 1877 conflict between the Nez Perce tribe and the U.S. Army.
• Oregon Territory: A large U.S. territory in the Pacific Northwest before states like Idaho were formed.
• Idaho National Laboratory: A research center focused on nuclear energy and technology.

Timeline of Idaho History

• Thousands of years ago – Native tribes including Shoshone, Nez Perce, and Coeur d’Alene inhabit the region.
• 1811 – Francois Payette explores Idaho.
• Early 1800s – Fur trade posts established.
• 1860 – Gold discovered in Idaho.
• 1863 – Idaho Territory created, separate from Oregon Territory.
• 1863 – Boise becomes the territorial capital.
• 1877 – Nez Perce War takes place.
• 1890 – Idaho admitted as the 43rd U.S. state.
• Late 1800s–1900s – Mining, agriculture, and timber industries expand.
• 1930s – Great Depression and drought devastate the state’s economy.
• 1942 – Idaho National Laboratory established during World War II.
• Mid-1900s – Idaho agriculture expands, especially potatoes.
• Late 1900s – Growth of high-tech industries and tourism.
• Today – Idaho known for its natural beauty, farming, and diverse economy.