Indiana - The Hoosier State

Title Picture of Indiana

Indiana

Early Peoples and Native Tribes

Long before European settlers arrived, Iowa was home to many Native American tribes, including the Ioway (for whom the state is named), Sioux, Meskwaki (Fox), and Sauk. These groups lived off the land through hunting, farming, and trading. The Meskwaki Tribe still has a settlement in Iowa today, maintaining cultural traditions and sovereignty.

Early History of Indiana

The area now known as Indiana was originally home to Native American tribes such as the Miami, Shawnee, and Potawatomi. These tribes lived off the land, building villages and trading across the region. The French were the first Europeans to explore the area in the 1670s, establishing fur trading posts and building relationships with local tribes.

Indiana Becomes a Territory

In 1800, the Indiana Territory was created, which included parts of present-day Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Vincennes became the first capital. William Henry Harrison, who would later become the 9th U.S. president, served as the first territorial governor. He negotiated several treaties with Native American tribes, often forcing them to give up land.

Statehood and Growth

Indiana became the 19th state of the United States on December 11, 1816. Its first capital was Corydon, later moved to Indianapolis in 1825. The state quickly grew due to migration from the East and the development of roads and canals. Indiana played a key role in agriculture, producing corn, wheat, and livestock.

Indiana During the Civil War

Although Indiana was a northern state, it had a mix of political opinions. Most Hoosiers supported the Union, and Indiana provided over 200,000 troops during the Civil War. Its industries helped supply the Union army, and the state experienced some political unrest due to differing views on the war.

Modern Developments

In the 20th century, Indiana became an important manufacturing center, especially for steel and automobiles. Cities like Gary and Indianapolis grew rapidly. Today, Indiana is known for its mix of farming, manufacturing, and strong traditions in sports and education.

Indiana Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts
Fact Detail Interesting Facts
Region Midwest
    1. Indiana residents are famously known as "Hoosiers," but the origin of the term is still debated.
    2. Indianapolis hosts the **Indianapolis 500**, one of the most famous automobile races in the world.
    3. The first professional baseball game was played in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1871.
    4. Indiana produces more popcorn than any other U.S. state.
    5. It is home to the largest children's museum in the world — The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.
    6. Abraham Lincoln spent most of his youth in southern Indiana (1816–1830).
    7. Indiana has more miles of interstate per square mile than any other state, making it a transportation hub.
    8. The state is a leading producer of steel, especially in the northwest region near Gary.
    9. Santa Claus, Indiana, receives thousands of letters to Santa every year due to its festive name.
    10. Notre Dame University, one of the most prestigious Catholic universities in the world, is located in South Bend, Indiana.
Population 6.8 million (2020 Census)
Area 36,420 sq mi
Statehood December 11, 1816 (19th state)
Capital City Indianapolis
Largest City Indianapolis
Abbreviation IN
Nickname The Hoosier State
Geography Flat to gently rolling plains, forests, and farmland; southern hills
Bordering States Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois
Economy Manufacturing, agriculture (corn, soybeans), transportation, pharmaceuticals
State Tree Tulip tree
State Bird Northern Cardinal

 

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Indiana Interactive Map

Interactive and Printable Indiana Maps and Map Activities

This section features numerous interactive and printable Indiana maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own Indiana map.

Minnesota History

History of Indiana

Indiana became the 19th state of the United States in 1816, after being part of the Northwest Territory. Its early history was shaped by Native American cultures, French fur traders, and conflicts like the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811.
Abraham Lincoln

Famous People from Indiana

Indiana is known for producing influential figures like Abraham Lincoln, who spent his youth in the state and grew into a leader who would later preserve the Union. It was also home to Tecumseh, the powerful Shawnee leader who resisted American expansion and left a lasting mark on U.S. history.

 
Comprehension

Indiana Literacy and Comprehension Exercises

This section offers a variety of literacy and reading comprehension activities, including engaging passages with question sets, cloze reading exercises, and lessons on text elements and structure. These resources are generally suitable for students in grades 4–8.
Iowa Symbols

Fun Indiana Printables and Coloring Activities

This section features fun and educational Indiana-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to Indiana' sign, and much more!
Collage America

Indiana and United States Online Games

This section provides some really exciting online games such as Indiana or Not Indiana, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.