North Dakota

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North Dakota - The Peace Garden State

Welcome to North Dakota

North Dakota, located in the northern Great Plains, is known for its vast prairies, wide-open skies, and agricultural strength. The state shares its northern border with Canada and is shaped by rolling plains, fertile farmland, and the rugged beauty of the Badlands in the west. The Missouri River runs through the heart of the state, offering both scenic and historical significance. North Dakota’s capital, Bismarck, and its largest city, Fargo, are centers of culture, education, and commerce.

History and Heritage

Before European settlers arrived, North Dakota was home to Native American nations such as the Mandan, Hidatsa, Arikara, Dakota, and Chippewa. The Lewis and Clark Expedition traveled through this region in the early 1800s, marking it as an important landmark in America’s westward exploration. Admitted as the 39th state in 1889, North Dakota has long been known for its farming and ranching traditions. Today, energy development—particularly oil extraction from the Bakken Formation—has transformed its economy.

Natural Beauty and Modern Life

From Theodore Roosevelt National Park to its thriving small towns, North Dakota combines natural wonder with a strong sense of community. Visitors can explore wide landscapes, enjoy local festivals, and experience the hospitality that defines life on the northern plains.

Virginia Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts

Fact	Detail	Interesting Facts
Region:	Midwest (Great Plains)	North Dakota is home to part of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, named after the president who once ranched there. The state’s official motto is “Liberty and Union, Now and Forever, One and Inseparable.” North Dakota is one of the least populated states in the U.S., but one of the top producers of oil. It has more registered vehicles than residents! The International Peace Garden sits on the border between North Dakota and Canada, symbolizing friendship between the two nations. Fargo, the largest city, is known for its thriving arts scene and for inspiring the famous movie and TV series “Fargo.” Lewis and Clark passed through what is now North Dakota during their expedition in the early 1800s. The state experiences extreme temperature swings — from below -30°F in winter to over 100°F in summer. North Dakota grows more sunflowers than any other U.S. state. Native American heritage is strong here, with several reservations and cultural centers, including the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.
Population:	About 780,000 (2025 est.)
Area:	70,704 sq mi (183,123 km²)
Statehood:	November 2, 1889 (39th state)
Capital City:	Bismarck
Largest City:	Fargo
Abbreviation:	ND
Nickname:	The Peace Garden State
Geography:	Mostly plains with rolling hills, part of the Great Plains and the Red River Valley; Missouri River runs through the state.
Bordering States:	Montana, South Dakota, Minnesota; borders Canada to the north (Manitoba and Saskatchewan).
Economy:	Energy (oil and natural gas), agriculture (wheat, soybeans, corn), manufacturing, and technology industries.
State Tree:	American Elm
State Bird:	Western Meadowlark

Our Content
	Interactive and Printable North Dakota Maps and Map Activities This section features numerous interactive and printable North Dakota maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own North Dakota map.

	History of North Dakota North Dakota became a state in 1889, joining the Union alongside South Dakota as part of America’s westward expansion. Its history is deeply rooted in Native American heritage, farming, and the development of the Great Plains.

	Famous People from North Dakota Important people from North Dakota include Theodore Roosevelt, who developed his conservation ideals while ranching in the state’s Badlands. Another key figure is Sitting Bull, the Lakota leader who courageously defended his people’s lands and later lived near Fort Yates in North Dakota.

	North Dakota 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.

	Fun North Dakota Printables and Coloring Activities This section features fun and educational North Dakota-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to North Dakota' sign, and much more!

	Fun North Dakota and United States Online Games This section provides some really exciting online games such as North Dakota or Not North Dakota, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.