Cities In Nebraska - Quick Facts, History & Geography
Nebraska Quick Facts
Nebraska is known as the "Cornhusker State." The nickname originates from the state's agricultural prominence, particularly in the cultivation of corn. Nebraska became the 37th state to join the United States on March 1, 1867. The capital city of Nebraska is Lincoln, named after President Abraham Lincoln. With a population of 479,529, Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska and serves as a major economic and cultural center in the state. Kool-Aid, the popular flavored drink mix, was invented in Hastings, Nebraska, by Edwin Perkins in the 1920s. Nebraska is the 16th largest state by land area with 77,347 square miles and is only 0.68% water. Nebraska ranks as the 38th most populated state with just over 1.9 million people. There are a total of 529 cities and towns in Nebraska. The name Nebraska, comes from the Oto India word Nebrathka, which means "flat water". The Reuben sandwich was born in Nebraska back in 1925 by a grocer who brought sandwiches to a local poker game. Famous people born in Nebraska include Warren Buffett, Marlon Brando, Fred Astaire, Gerald Ford, Malcolm X, Nick Nolte, Henry Fonda and Wade Boggs.
The Storied History of Nebraska
The history of Nebraska is a tale of exploration, settlement and progress in the vast expanse of the Great Plains. Nebraska's history dates back to prehistoric times, with Native American tribes such as the Pawnee, Omaha, Ponca and Sioux residing in the area. In the early 18th century, French and Spanish explorers, including Étienne de Veniard, Sieur de Bourgmont and Manuel Lisa, ventured into Nebraska in search of new territories and opportunities for the fur trade. In 1804-1806, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, passed through Nebraska on their journey to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and find a route to the Pacific Ocean. In the mid-19th century, Nebraska became a significant stop on the Oregon Trail and other westward migration routes. In 1854, the Kansas-Nebraska Act was passed, organizing the region into the Nebraska Territory. The Homestead Act of 1862 encouraged settlement in Nebraska and other western states by offering 160 acres of public land to anyone who would cultivate and improve it. The completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad in 1869 significantly impacted Nebraska's growth and economy. Agriculture became the backbone of Nebraska's economy, with fertile soils and favorable climate supporting the cultivation of various crops, especially corn, wheat, and livestock. Throughout the 20th century, Nebraska continued to evolve as an agricultural powerhouse and a center for industries such as manufacturing, education, and telecommunications.
The Geography of Nebraska
As a landlocked state in the Great Plains region of the United States, Nebraska's geographical features have played a crucial role in shaping its economy, culture, and way of life. Nebraska is bordered by 6 states including Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming and South Dakota. The majority of Nebraska is part of the Great Plains, a vast expanse of flat or gently rolling grasslands that extend across much of the central United States. The Missouri River forms Nebraska's eastern border with Iowa and Missouri. It is one of the longest rivers in North America. Flowing through the central part of the state, the Platte River is a major tributary of the Missouri River. The Sandhills, located in north-central Nebraska, are a unique geological region consisting of grass-stabilized sand dunes. In the northwest corner of Nebraska, the Pine Ridge region is characterized by rolling hills and mixed-grass prairies. Nebraska sits atop the vast Ogallala Aquifer, one of the world's largest underground water sources. While Nebraska is predominantly rural, it is home to several notable cities, including the capital city of Lincoln and the largest city, Omaha. These urban centers serve as economic and cultural hubs for the state.
Nebraska Relocation Information
The state of Nebraska used to be known as "where the west begins" and it was only a century and a half ago that wild bison roamed Nebraska's open plains. Most cities in Nebraska have preserved much of its wild past, and so there are many historical attractions in Nebraska. Parts of the Oregon Trail, Pony Express Trail, and the Mormon Trail have all been preserved in the state, and when visiting the sites, you can learn about how these pioneers settled this wild frontier land. Also, be sure to drive past geologically unique Chimney Rock, a major landmark for those early pioneers. The city of Omaha is also a great travel destination, with countless restaurants, events and attractions. The Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha is one of the best in the world.
If you are relocating to Nebraska for a job, you will be glad to know that the cost of living ranks lower than the national average in every category from housing to food and transportation. As far as weather goes, most cities in Nebraska offer warm summers, but cool winters. The eastern side of the state is more humid than the western side, which has a steppe terrain. Most of Nebraska will get around 30 inches of snow every year, and severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are common in spring and summer.
Crime rates in Nebraska cities do fall below the national average by about 10%. Larger cities like Omaha and Lincoln do have higher than average crime rates, but that is to be expected from cities of their size.
