Welcome to Nevada
Nevada, known as the "Silver State," is a land of striking contrasts—towering mountain ranges, vast desert valleys, and vibrant cities that never seem to sleep. Located in the western United States, it is bordered by California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Arizona. Much of Nevada lies within the Great Basin, giving it a dry, sunny climate and dramatic landscapes that attract adventurers, hikers, and explorers alike.
History and Heritage
Nevada’s story began long before it joined the Union in 1864. Native American groups such as the Paiute, Shoshone, and Washoe lived in the region for thousands of years. The discovery of silver in the Comstock Lode in 1859 brought a mining boom that transformed its economy and helped finance the Union during the Civil War. Today, traces of old mining towns still echo the excitement of that era.
People and Places
Beyond its famous city of Las Vegas, Nevada offers stunning natural landmarks like Lake Tahoe, Red Rock Canyon, and the Valley of Fire. Reno, known as “The Biggest Little City in the World,” blends art, entertainment, and outdoor beauty. Whether for its shimmering deserts or lively cities, Nevada stands as a place of bold spirit and endless discovery.
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| Fact |
Detail |
Interesting Facts |
| Region |
West |
- Nevada became a state during the Civil War in 1864, earning the nickname “Battle Born.”
- It’s the driest state in the U.S., with an average annual rainfall of less than 10 inches.
- Las Vegas is home to more than half of the state’s population and is known worldwide for its casinos and entertainment.
- Area 51, a secretive U.S. military base famous for UFO legends, is located in southern Nevada.
- The Hoover Dam, on the border of Nevada and Arizona, was built during the Great Depression and remains a major engineering landmark.
- Nevada produces more gold than any other U.S. state and ranks among the top gold producers globally.
- Carson City is one of only two U.S. state capitals that borders another state (California).
- The name “Nevada” comes from the Spanish word for “snow-covered,” referring to the Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Legalized gambling has been a key part of Nevada’s economy since 1931.
- Lake Tahoe, shared with California, is one of the clearest and deepest alpine lakes in the world.
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| Population |
3.2 million (approx.) |
| Area |
110,572 sq mi (286,380 km²) |
| Statehood |
October 31, 1864 (36th state) |
| Capital City |
Carson City |
| Largest City |
Las Vegas |
| Abbreviation |
NV |
| Nickname |
The Silver State |
| Geography |
Mostly desert and mountain terrain; includes parts of the Mojave Desert and Sierra Nevada range; known for arid climate and wide basins. |
| Bordering States |
Oregon, Idaho, California, Arizona, Utah |
| Economy |
Tourism, gaming, mining (especially silver and gold), and renewable energy are major industries. |
| State Tree |
Single-Leaf Pinyon Pine |
| State Bird |
Mountain Bluebird |
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