Historical Note:

Sioux show some Backbone . . .

In 1866 the Federal government planned to build a road (Bozeman Trail) across the Sioux's favorite hunting grounds,violating another Indian treaty. Already inflamed by the Sand Creek Massacre two years earlier, Chief Red Cloud's army of Sioux warriors retaliated. Lead by Chief Backbone, they set a trap and ambushed 80 U.S. soldiers, wiping out the entire party. The very next day, however, the Sioux were beaten by U.S troops. Nevertheless, the Federal government did abandon all plans for the Bozeman Trail just two years later.

Name Origin: Indian. ("Sun coming down mountain," or "gem of the mountain")

Capital: Boise

Population: 1,133,000

Area: 83,564 square miles

Statehood: July 3, 1890 (43rd)

Nickname: The Gem State

Motto: "It is forever"

Famous For: Potatoes, Wheat, Sugar Beets, Cattle, Sheep, Gems, Large Lakes, Dramatic Waterfalls, Snake River, Hells Canyon, Craters of the Moon National Monument.