North Dakota: A Historical Timeline
Pre-Statehood
- 1803: Louisiana Purchase includes the present-day territory of North Dakota.
- 1861-1865: Dakota Territory, which includes North Dakota, remains loyal to the Union during the Civil War.
Statehood and Early History
- 1889: North Dakota becomes a state on November 2.
- 1890: Farmers Alliance and Populist Party gain political power, advocating for rural interests.
- 1893: North Dakota adopts the Nonpartisan League, which has a profound impact on state politics.
20th Century
- 1915: North Dakota becomes the first state to establish a public bank, the Bank of North Dakota.
- 1930s: Great Depression severely impacts North Dakota’s agricultural economy.
- 1941-1945: North Dakota contributes troops to the Allied effort during World War II.
- 1950s-1960s: North Dakota’s economy rebounds with the discovery of oil.
- 1970: The Garrison Diversion Project, a controversial water management project, begins construction.
Recent History
- 1980s: Agricultural crisis hits North Dakota’s economy.
- 1990s: North Dakota’s economy recovers with the growth of the energy sector.
- 2000s: North Dakota experiences rapid economic growth and population increase driven by the Bakken Shale oil boom.
- 2017: The Dakota Access Pipeline controversy leads to protests and legal battles.
Important Legislation
- 1890: Nonpartisan League laws, including a statewide primary and a public utilities commission.
- 1915: Bank of North Dakota Act, establishing a state-owned bank.
- 1935: Unemployment Compensation Act, providing unemployment benefits.
Important Court Cases
- 1956: Yankton Sioux Tribe v. United States, a landmark case that affirmed the rights of Native American tribes to self-government.
- 2017: Standing Rock Sioux Tribe v. Army Corps of Engineers, a case challenging the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
Major Industry
- Energy (oil and gas production)
Impact on the Rest of the Country
- North Dakota’s Nonpartisan League movement influenced progressive political reforms nationwide.
- The Bank of North Dakota has served as a model for state-owned banks in other states.
- North Dakota’s energy production has contributed to the United States’ energy independence.