Delaware Becomes America’s First State
On December 7, 1787, Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, making it America’s first state.
Statehood
Oklahoma Becomes 46th State
On November 16, 1907, Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory were merged to create the state of Oklahoma.
Washington Becomes 42nd State
On November 11, 1889, Washington was admitted to the Union.
North and South Dakota Admitted to the Union
On November 2, 1889, North and South Dakota became our 39th and 40th states.
Nevada Becomes 36th State
On October 31, 1864, Abraham Lincoln admitted Nevada to the Union to aid in the Civil War.
Missouri Becomes 24th State
On August 10, 1821, President James Monroe signed legislation adding Missouri to the Union as our 24th state. When the U.S. took ownership of Missouri, most of the land had already been explored. Many communities had already been founded, and farming and mineral industries had been developed. Missouri was made a part of Upper Louisiana; then, in 1812, the Missouri Territory was organized.
Colorado Admitted as 38th State
On August 1, 1876, President Ulysses S. Grant signed legislation admitting Colorado to the Union as the Centennial State (it was admitted 28 days after the 100th anniversary of the United States).
The U.S. Annexes Hawaii
On July 7, 1898, President William McKinley signed legislation annexing Hawaii, paving the way for it to become a US state.
Idaho Becomes 43rd State
On July 3, 1890, Idaho was admitted as America’s 43rd state.