Iowa

History: The Native Americans in Iowa more than 13,000 years ago started as hunters and gatherers, living in a Pleistocene glacial landscape. At the time of European exploration, numerous civilized tribes were living in the area including the Oneota Dakota, Ho-Chunk, Iowa, and Otoe. Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet (French explorers) were first Europeans to visit Iowa, traveling on the Mississippi River. They claimed the land for France, and Iowa became part of the Louisiana Territory. After the French and Indian War, France transferred ownership to Spain in 1763. In 1800, France regained control of Louisiana from Spain by treaty, then sold it to U.S. in 1803 as the Louisiana Purchase. There was continued instability in the area for many years, with the U.S. fighting with Britain and other Indian tribes. After removal or transfer of many remaining tribes, Iowa finally achieved statehood on December 28, 1846.

Economy: Iowa derives most (about 23%) of its income from manufacturing. Biotechnology, finance and insurance services, and government services are also important sectors of the economy. While most of Iowa seems to be covered in corn, agriculture makes up a rather small (3.5%) part of the state’s diversified economy. The main items produced are hogs, corn, soybeans, oats, cattle, eggs, and dairy products. Iowa is the largest producer in the U.S. of ethanol (made from corn).

Climate: Iowa’s climate has extremes of both heat and cold, with its humid continental climate covering the entire state. Spring brings the beginning of the most severe weather season, where they can have about 50 days of thunderstorms annually, as well as close to 50 tornadoes. Its summers are known for being hot and humid, from 90-100 degrees F and high percentages of humidity.

Geography: Iowa’s east and west borders are formed completely by rivers. It is bordered by the Mississippi River on the east, and the Missouri River and Big Sioux River on the west. Its southern border is the Des Moines River and a very irregular line along the northern side.

Fun Facts:

Iowa’s nickname is the Hawkeye state, as a tribute to Chief Black Hawk, leader of the Sauk tribe.
The world’s first electronic digital computer was built and operated by researchers at Iowa State University in the 1930’s
The state flag resembles the flag of France, because Iowa was originally controlled by France.
Iowa has more golf courses than any other state, in relation to its population.
The largest concentration of wind turbine farms in the world is in northwest Iowa.
Sioux City is the self-proclaimed ‘ice cream capital of the world’.

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