According to itypetravel.com, South Dakota is located in the north-central United States and is bordered by North Dakota to the north, Minnesota to the east, Iowa to the southeast, Nebraska to the south, Wyoming to the west and Montana to the northwest. The state has an area of 77,116 square miles (199,764 km2). Its population was estimated at 882,235 in 2019. South Dakota is divided into 66 counties and contains 953 incorporated municipalities. It has three distinct geographic regions: The Great Plains, which covers most of the state; The Black Hills in the southwest; and The Coteau des Prairies in the northeast.
The Great Plains region consists of rolling hills covered with grasslands and small lakes. This region includes most of South Dakota’s agricultural land as well as its major cities such as Sioux Falls and Rapid City. This area also contains Badlands National Park which features some of America’s most beautiful but rugged terrain.
The Black Hills region is home to some of South Dakota’s most famous attractions such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial and Wind Cave National Park. This region is full of pine-covered mountains with elevations ranging from 4,000 feet (1,219 m) on Harney Peak in Custer State Park up to 7200 feet (2194 m) on Black Elk Peak near Mount Rushmore.
The Coteau des Prairies is a unique part of South Dakota that has been shaped by glaciation over thousands of years. This region consists mainly of flat plains with occasional buttes or bluffs along rivers or streams providing scenic views for travelers through this area. Some important cities in this region include Pierre (the state capital), Aberdeen, Watertown and Brookings.
History
According to TOPSCHOOLSOFLAW, South Dakota was first explored by European settlers in the late 1700s. The first permanent settlement was established in 1817, when Pierre-Jean de Smet led a group of missionaries to the area. In 1858, the Yankton Sioux signed the Treaty of Fort Laramie, ceding much of present-day South Dakota to the United States. In 1889, South Dakota was officially admitted to the Union as the 40th state.
The early years of South Dakota’s statehood were characterized by rapid growth and development. Railroads were built throughout the region, connecting small towns and cities with each other and with other parts of the country. This allowed for increased trade and commerce and helped spur economic growth throughout South Dakota. The state also experienced a population boom during this period, due to an influx of European immigrants who had been drawn to its agricultural opportunities.
In addition to its economic successes, South Dakota played an important role in U.S. history during World War II with several key military bases located within its borders at that time. The Ellsworth Air Force Base located just outside Rapid City remains an important part of U.S military operations today and continues to be a major employer in South Dakota’s Black Hills region.
The 1950s saw a shift in focus from agriculture towards industry as more people moved away from rural areas into larger cities such as Sioux Falls and Rapid City for employment opportunities in manufacturing industries such as electronics and automotive parts production. This trend has continued into modern times but has been balanced by an increase in tourism due to attractions such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park and many other natural wonders that make up South Dakota’s unique landscape.
Culture
The culture of South Dakota is deeply rooted in the state’s history as a frontier state. This can be seen in the state’s official motto, “Under God, the People Rule.” This reflects the independent spirit of South Dakotans and their belief that the rights of individuals should be respected and protected. Many South Dakotans are proud to call themselves “mountain men” or “frontiersmen,” a testament to their pioneer heritage.
South Dakota’s culture is also strongly influenced by its Native American population. The Sioux, Cheyenne, and other tribes have lived in the area for centuries and continue to practice their customs, traditions, and language today. This includes powwows and other celebrations that honor tribal heritage. The state celebrates Native American Day each October to recognize the contributions of these tribes to South Dakota’s culture.
South Dakota is also known for its strong agricultural roots. Much of the economy revolves around farming activities such as cattle ranching, wheat production, and corn farming. These activities help shape the rural lifestyle that many South Dakotans enjoy today. In addition to agriculture, tourism is an important part of the economy with attractions such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial drawing visitors from all over the world each year.
State Flag
According to citypopulationreview, the South Dakota state flag consists of a deep blue field with the state’s seal in the center. The seal is encircled by a golden wreath and has the words “South Dakota” printed above it. The seal features a picture of a farmer plowing in front of a setting sun, which symbolizes the importance of agriculture to the state. On either side of the farmer are two symbols representing the state’s natural resources, with a river and steamboat on one side, and hills, trees and an American bison on the other. The Latin motto “Under God The People Rule” is inscribed above the scene, while below it are two dates – 1889 (the year South Dakota became a state) and 1817 (the year Lewis & Clark first explored what is now South Dakota). A golden star in each corner completes the design.
The South Dakota flag was designed by Dr. Samuel Sherman in 1909 to celebrate South Dakota’s 20th anniversary as an official US State. It was officially adopted by Governor Robert S. Vessey in 1911. Since then, it has become an iconic symbol for both visitors and locals alike – proudly representing all that makes this great state unique! It stands for hard work, natural beauty, and dedication to our shared values of freedom and democracy. From its place atop government buildings to its presence at sporting events and parades, it serves as an enduring reminder that we are all part of something bigger than ourselves – part of something called home.
