Iowa - The Hawkeye State

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Iowa

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.

Exploration and Settlement

French explorers Louis Jolliet and Jacques Marquette were among the first Europeans to document the area in 1673 as they traveled the Mississippi River. The land that is now Iowa became part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. Afterward, settlers began moving in, and Native tribes were forced off their lands through treaties and conflict.

Territory and Statehood

Iowa became a U.S. territory in 1838 and achieved statehood on December 28, 1846, becoming the 29th state. It was part of the American frontier and quickly grew due to its fertile land and central location. Immigrants from Germany, Ireland, and Scandinavia helped build its towns and farms.

Agriculture and Economic Growth

Iowa became known for its rich farmland and agricultural output, particularly corn, soybeans, and livestock. Its economy also grew to include manufacturing, insurance, and education. The state's central location made it a transportation hub for the Midwest.

Modern Iowa

Today, Iowa is a blend of small towns and urban centers like Des Moines, its capital. It plays a key role in national politics through the Iowa caucuses and continues to be a leader in agriculture and renewable energy, including wind power. Its cultural identity reflects both rural traditions and progressive values.

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Fast Facts and Interesting Facts
Fact Detail Interesting Facts
Region Midwest
  1. Iowa is the top U.S. producer of corn and pork, making agriculture a cornerstone of its economy.
  2. The state is bordered by two major rivers: the Mississippi River to the east and the Missouri River to the west.
  3. The first presidential caucus in the nation is held in Iowa, making it politically significant every election cycle.
  4. Des Moines is a major hub for the insurance industry and has a growing tech sector.
  5. Iowa has more pigs than people—over 20 million hogs are raised in the state annually.
  6. The Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville is a famous tourist destination.
  7. Iowa is home to the world’s largest truck stop—The Iowa 80 Truckstop in Walcott.
  8. Herbert Hoover, the 31st U.S. president, was born in West Branch, Iowa.
  9. Iowa's name comes from the Ioway people, one of the Native American tribes originally living in the area.
  10. The state experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and snowy winters, ideal for a range of crops.
  11. In 1884, Iowa became the first state to admit both men and women to its public universities on an equal basis, reflecting its progressive stance on education and gender equality.
  12. The town of Riverside, Iowa, is famously known as the “future birthplace” of Captain James T. Kirk from *Star Trek*, complete with a commemorative monument and annual Trek Fest.
Population 3.2 million (approx.)
Area 56,272 sq mi
Statehood Date December 28, 1846 (29th state)
Capital City Des Moines
Largest City Des Moines
Abbreviation IA
Nickname Hawkeye State
Geography Rolling plains, fertile farmland, rivers; located between the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers
Bordering States Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota
Economy Agriculture (corn, soybeans, hogs), manufacturing, insurance, renewable energy
State Tree Burr Oak
State Bird American Goldfinch

 

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Iowa Interactive Map

Interactive and Printable Iowa Maps and Map Activities

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

Minnesota History

History of Iowa

Iowa became part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and was admitted as the 29th state in 1846. Before European settlement, the area was home to Native American tribes such as the Ioway, Sioux, and Meskwaki.
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Famous People from Iowa

Iowa is the birthplace of many notable Americans, including Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, who was born in West Branch. Another famous figure is Buffalo Bill Cody, a legendary frontiersman and showman born near Le Claire.

 
Comprehension

Iowa 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 Iowa Printables and Coloring Activities

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

Iowa and United States Online Games

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