Wyoming: Land of Wide Open Spaces and History

Wyoming is a state located in the western region of the United States, known for its natural beauty, wide open spaces, and deep history. The region that is now Wyoming was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Sioux nations.

Early Exploration and Trade

In the early 19th century, Wyoming became part of the Louisiana Territory, purchased by the United States from France in 1803. Over the next decades, traders, trappers, and explorers came to the region, drawn by its abundant wildlife and natural resources. Trading posts like Fort Laramie and Fort Bridger became important centers of activity as settlers and pioneers established communities.

Most of Wyoming was included in the Louisiana Purchase

Territory and Growth

In the late 19th century, Wyoming became a U.S. territory. The discovery of gold, copper, and other minerals fueled new growth, while cattle ranching made the state a hub for cowboys and cattle drives. In 1872, Yellowstone, located in the northwest corner of Wyoming, became the first national park in American history.

Conflicts and Struggles

Wyoming was the site of several dramatic events. The Fetterman Massacre in 1866 saw Sioux warriors ambush and kill U.S. soldiers. Later, the Johnson County War erupted as conflict between wealthy cattle ranchers and smaller, independent ranchers.

Modern Development and Achievements

By the 20th century, Wyoming became a leader in the energy industry, with vast reserves of coal, oil, and natural gas driving its economy. The state made history in 1925 by electing Nellie Tayloe Ross, the first female governor in United States history.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Wyoming was attractive to early trappers and traders?
2. What role did forts like Fort Laramie and Fort Bridger play in Wyoming’s history?
3. How did Yellowstone’s creation as the first national park shape American history?
4. Why was the election of Nellie Tayloe Ross as governor such an important milestone?

Glossary

• Louisiana Territory – Land purchased by the U.S. from France in 1803, which included present-day Wyoming.
• Trading Post – A place where goods were exchanged, often between settlers and Native Americans.
• Fetterman Massacre – An 1866 battle where Sioux warriors ambushed and killed U.S. Army soldiers.
• Johnson County War – A violent conflict in Wyoming between wealthy cattle ranchers and small ranchers in the late 19th century.
• Nellie Tayloe Ross – The first woman to serve as governor of a U.S. state, elected in Wyoming in 1925.

Timeline of Wyoming History

• Prehistory – Indigenous tribes such as the Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Sioux inhabit the land.
• 1803 – Wyoming becomes part of the U.S. in the Louisiana Purchase.
• 1834 – Fort Laramie is established as a major trading post.
• 1843 – Fort Bridger is founded as another key outpost.
• 1866 – Fetterman Massacre occurs near Fort Phil Kearny.
• 1868 – Wyoming Territory is created by Congress.
• 1872 – Yellowstone becomes the first U.S. national park.
• 1889 – Wyoming approves the first state constitution granting women the right to vote.
• 1890 – Wyoming becomes the 44th U.S. state.
• 1892 – Johnson County War breaks out between ranchers.
• 1925 – Nellie Tayloe Ross becomes the first female governor in U.S. history.
• 20th Century – Wyoming develops into a leader in coal, oil, and natural gas production.