Fun Easy English - Travel the United States of America

CAPITAL CITY: St. Paul

BACKGROUND

Minnesota's name comes from the Dakota (Sioux) word for the Minnesota River's "sky-tinted waters." In 1858, Minnesota became the 32nd state. Minnesota is an important producer of agricultural and manufactured goods. The state's history is the story of the development of its natural resources. The fur-bearing animals of the forests first attracted fur traders. Next, the fertile soil brought farmers, who poured into the region from the Eastern States and from Europe.

The thick forests of tall pines attracted lumberjacks from Maine, Michigan and Wisconsin. Minnesota's scenic beauty, sparkling lakes and deep pine woods make it a vacation wonderland. Campers, canoeists and hikers can explore its vast northern wilderness areas.

QUICK FACTS

The great seal of the state of Minnesota

Nickname: North Star State / Gopher State / Bread and Butter State

Motto: L'Etoile du Nord (The star of the north.)

Statehood: May 11, 1858 (32th)

Origin of State's Name: Based on the Dakota Sioux Indian word for "sky-tinted water," referring to the Minnesota River or the state's many lakes.

Largest Cities: Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Bloomington, Duluth, Rochester

Border States: Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin

Land Area: 79,617 sq. mi., 14th largest

State Bird: Common Loon

State Flower: Pink and white lady's-slipper (cypripedium reginae)

State Tree: Red Pine (pinus resinosa)

State Song: Hail! Minnesota

USEFUL LINKS

Miscellaneous

Travel and tourism site for Minnesota - This state travel and territorial tourism site provides ideas for your vacations, meetings, and more.