The territory of Nebraska became a state on March 1, 1867. It was decided that the state should be named after the largest river in the area. That particular river had been given two names. The white settlers had named it the Platte River, which is what it is known as today. An Oto Indian tribe living in the area called the river Nebraska, which means "flat water." No one is sure how Nebraska was chosen over Platte, but most agree it was the better choice.

Prior to the arrival of European settlers, the plains of the Nebraska territory were filled with wild buffalo. Several different Native American clans lived and hunted in the area. Some where hunter/gatherer groups who lived in teepees and moved from place to place. Other clans built more permanent structures and planted gardens. They usually grew such items as corn and squash. As the white settlers moved into the Nebraska area, they followed the lead of their new neighbors. Farms and ranches sprang up everywhere. Agriculture and cattle ranching became the main sources of income for these early settlers and remains so today.

Areas of interest for visitors to Nebraska include the many State Parks, incredible zoos and historic sites. There are also several art, science and history museums found in Nebraska.