Wyoming is a state located in the western region of the United States. Its capital and largest city is Cheyenne. As of 2020, the population of Wyoming was approximately 576,000.
Wyoming is the 10th largest state by area but the least populous state in the country. It is bordered by Montana to the north, South Dakota and Nebraska to the east, Colorado to the south, Utah to the southwest, and Idaho to the west.
Wyoming is known for its natural beauty, with vast areas of untouched wilderness and iconic landmarks such as Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Devils Tower National Monument. It is also known for its historic role in the American West, with many towns and landmarks associated with the cowboy and ranching culture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Before European settlement, the region that is now Wyoming was home to various Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, Crow, Arapaho, and Sioux. The first European to explore Wyoming was French-Canadian trapper Etienne Provost in 1807. The region became part of the United States with the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, but it was not until the 1860s that significant numbers of settlers began to arrive.
Wyoming became a territory in 1868, and in 1890 it became the 44th state to join the union. The state’s economy was initially based on mining, particularly coal, and oil, but it has diversified over time to include agriculture, tourism, and other industries.
One of the most significant events in Wyoming’s history is the Johnson County War, which took place in 1892. The conflict was a range war between large cattle ranchers and smaller ranchers and homesteaders who were accused of cattle rustling. The dispute came to a head when the large ranchers hired a private army to attack the smaller ranchers, but the conflict was eventually resolved with the intervention of the federal government.
Wyoming was also the site of some of the earliest and most significant women’s suffrage victories in the United States. In 1869, the Wyoming Territorial Legislature passed a bill granting women the right to vote, making it the first government in the world to do so. Women in Wyoming also served on juries and held public office before women’s suffrage became the law of the land with the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920.
In addition to its historic and natural attractions, Wyoming is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The state is home to numerous museums, theaters, and music venues, and it hosts several major festivals and events throughout the year, including the Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo and the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival.
Overall, Wyoming is a unique and beautiful state with a rich history and a diverse range of attractions and activities. Whether you are interested in exploring the great outdoors, learning about the history of the American West, or experiencing the vibrant arts and culture scene, Wyoming has something to offer for everyone.