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Yellowstone River
The river was named by James Mackey. -
The Louisiana Purchase
It was a huge purchase of territory that later made the state of Montana. -
The Lewis and Clark Expedition
Opening up the future state to more travelers and eventual settlers. -
Johnny Grant
Started the first beef herd in the Deer Lodge Valley. -
Gold was discovered in Western Montana
Bringing prospectors and miners to the Montana area, leading to the boomtowns that grew dramatically and turned Montana into a U.S. territory in 1864 with nine established counties. -
The Battle of the Little Bighorn
Led to a strengthened U.S. Army occupation in the area, and the Black Hills were soon under the control of the U.S. Many Indian tribes surrendered within a year after the battle and were confined to reservations. -
Railroads in Montana
Expanding exploration and trade from steamboat and wagon trails. -
Montana a State
Became the 41st state admitted to the Union in 1889 by a Presidential proclamation. -
Enlarged Homestead Act
Tens of thousands of farmers journeyed to the state for its wheat farming and cattle and sheep ranching. The boom later turned into a bust during the Great Depression. -
Glacier National Park
Montana was established for its unique scenic beauty in 1910 following a bill signed by President Taft. In 1932, Glacier became the world’s first International Peace Park when it combined with Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada.