When did North Dakota become a state?

North Dakota became the 39th U.S. state on November 2, 1889. It was admitted to the Union on the same day as South Dakota, following a political conflict over a shared capital.

What are the main geographical features of North Dakota?

North Dakota's geography includes the flat, fertile Red River Valley in the east, the rolling hills of the Drift Prairie in the central part, and the rugged Badlands and Missouri Plateau in the west.

What is North Dakota famous for?

North Dakota is famous as 'The Peace Garden State' and for its vast agricultural production, especially leading the U.S. in crops like spring wheat and dry edible beans. It's also known for its energy industry.

All About North Dakota: Flag, Map, Geography, History, Facts, and Education

By Manvi Upadhyaya

Jul 11, 2025, 06:28 EDT

North Dakota became the 39th State of the United States. Due to the growing population in the Dakota territory, dissatisfaction among people increased, and the Northern and Southern territories split on November 2, 1889. The vibrant state is famous for its oil, gas, and vast agricultural production. It is also famous for Theodore Roosevelt National Park. In this article, learn about what its flag symbolises, the map, geography, rich history, how is education in North Dakota, and more.

North Dakota is often called "The Peace Garden State" or "Roughrider Country." It is a unique U.S. state located in the Upper Midwest. It is highly known for its vast agricultural lands, rich energy resources, and distinctive landscapes. North Dakota became part of the Dakota Territory in 1861. It offers a fascinating glimpse into American history and culture. From its symbolic State Flag to its defining Geography, intriguing Facts, and commitment to Education, this article explores key aspects of North Dakota.

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What is the North Dakota State Flag?

The North Dakota State Flag, adopted in 1911, features a bald eagle holding an olive branch, which symbolises peace, and a bundle of arrows, which symbolises war, in its talons. The eagle's mouth holds a ribbon with the Latin motto "E Pluribus Unum," meaning "Out of Many, One," which refers to the many states uniting into one nation.

The eagle is positioned above a scroll bearing the state's name, "North Dakota," all set against a dark blue field. This design reflects the state's readiness to defend itself while seeking peace, and its place within the U.S. Union.

What does the North Dakota Map Symbolise?

The North Dakota Map immediately highlights its position in the north-central United States. It borders Minnesota to the east along the Red River of the North, South Dakota to the south, Montana to the west, and the Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba to the north. The town of Rugby, North Dakota, is famously considered the geographic centre of the North American continent.

What is North Dakota’s Geography?

North Dakota's Geography is generally characterised by three broad steps that rise in elevation from east to west:

Red River Valley: In the east, this is a very flat and fertile plain, once the bed of ancient glacial Lake Agassiz. It's known for its rich soil and extensive farming.
Drift Prairie: West of the Red River Valley, this region features rolling hills, numerous small lakes, and wetlands, all shaped by glaciers.
Missouri Plateau (Great Plains): Covering the western half, this area includes more rugged terrain, buttes, and valleys, notably the Badlands along the Little Missouri River. White Butte, the state's highest point at 3,506 feet (1,069 meters), is located here. The Missouri River also flows through the state, forming Lake Sakakawea, a large reservoir.

What is the History of North Dakota?

The History of North Dakota began thousands of years ago with Native American tribes like the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara inhabiting the region. Moreover, the Europeans explored the state in the 18th century with French fur traders. The first European to explore the region was French Canadian explorer Pierre Gaultier de Varennes, sieur de La Vérendrye, who visited the Mandan villages in 1738. The Dakota Territory was formed in 1861.

Rapid settlement occurred in the 1870s and 1880s, driven by the Homestead Act and railroad expansion. This led to North Dakota achieving statehood on 2 November 1889 and it became the 39th U.S. state which is admitted alongside the South Dakota.

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Where is North Dakota ranked in Education?

Education is a vital part of North Dakota's public services, with a comprehensive system from kindergarten through higher education. It ranks in 19th position according to World Population Review in education, as per the Overall Public School Rank 2024. The state boasts a high school graduation rate. The North Dakota University System is the largest educational enterprise, comprising two research universities, four regional universities, and five community colleges. The University of North Dakota was founded in 1883 in Grand Forks, and North Dakota State University was founded in 1890 in Fargo. These are its largest public institutions, offering a wide range of academic and research programmes.

Interesting Facts About North Dakota

North Dakota leads the U.S. in the production of crops like spring wheat, durum wheat, and dry edible beans.
It's a major producer of oil from the Bakken Formation and wind energy.
It is a unique symbol of friendship with Canada, located on the border with Manitoba.
It preserves parts of the Badlands that inspired President Theodore Roosevelt's conservation efforts.

North Dakota continues to be a state defined by its agricultural prowess, energy production, and resilient spirit, deeply rooted in its frontier past while embracing modern development.

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