Wyoming Teacher Guide

General Facts

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Timeline

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Landmark Postcard

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Fun Facts

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Essential Questions for Wyoming

1. What are some significant events in the history of Wyoming?
2. What are some facts and features that make Wyoming unique?
3. What are some interesting places in Wyoming that people would want to visit?

All About Wyoming

Date of Statehood: July 10, 1890 (44th state)

State Motto: “Equal Rights”

State Nickname: The Equality State

State Bird: Western Meadowlark

State Tree: Plains Cottonwood

State Flower: Indian Paintbrush

Tourist Attractions: Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, Devils Tower National Monument, Hot Springs State Park, Jackson Hole

Famous Citizens of Wyoming: Jackson Pollock, Buffalo Billy Cody, Harrison Ford, Dick Cheney

Capital City: Cheyenne

Major Cities: Casper, Laramie, Gillette, Rock Springs

Brief History of Wyoming

Early Inhabitants: Long before European settlers arrived, Wyoming was home to Native American tribes such as the Shoshone, Arapaho, and Crow. These tribes lived off the land, hunting buffalo, gathering plants, and living in harmony with nature.

Exploration and Fur Trade: In the early 1800s, European explorers like John Colter and Jim Bridger ventured into Wyoming in search of furs and new trade routes. They were followed by fur traders and mountain men who explored the rugged terrain and established trading posts.

Oregon Trail and Westward Expansion: During the mid-1800s, thousands of pioneers traveled through Wyoming on the Oregon Trail and other westward trails in search of a better life. Wyoming's vast prairies and majestic mountains were both beautiful and challenging for these pioneer

Transcontinental Railroad: Wyoming played a crucial role in the building of the Transcontinental Railroad, which connected the east and west coasts of the United States. The railroad brought rapid growth and development to Wyoming, connecting it to the rest of the country.

Women's Suffrage: Wyoming was a pioneer in women's rights. In 1869, it became the first state to grant women the right to vote and hold public office. This important milestone earned Wyoming the nickname "The Equality State."

Yellowstone National Park: In 1872, Yellowstone National Park was established as the world's first national park. Located in Wyoming and neighboring states, Yellowstone is known for its geysers, hot springs, and stunning landscapes.

Cattle Ranching and Cowboys: Wyoming became known for its vast cattle ranches and cowboys in the late 1800s. Cowboys herded cattle across the open range, and cattle drives were a common sight in Wyoming's countryside.

Statehood and Beyond: Wyoming became the 44th state in the United States on July 10, 1890. Since then, it has continued to grow and develop, with industries such as mining, energy production, and tourism playing important roles in its economy.