IDAHO STATE - Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Idaho boasts stunning landscapes, rich history, and a unique nickname. But before achieving statehood in 1890, Idaho’s path to its identity was marked by a peculiar tale of misnomers and misconceptions.
Idaho: From "Gem of the Mountains" to The Gem State
Idaho’s journey to statehood began as a territory carved out of parts of Washington, Dakota, and Nebraska territories in 1863. However, the name “Idaho” had a convoluted history, steeped in a bit of fabricated folklore.
Originally, "Idaho" was proposed as a name for the Colorado Territory. It was claimed to be a Shoshone term meaning "gem of the mountains" or "the sun comes from the mountains." However, this claim was later debunked, revealing no such Shoshone word existed. The name was then briefly attached to a county in Washington Territory before ultimately being adopted for the territory that would become the state of Idaho.
Native American Presence: The Nimiipuu and Shoshone-Bannock Tribes
Long before European settlers arrived, Idaho's lands were inhabited by various Native American tribes, most notably the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) in the north and the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes in the south. These tribes had their own names and deep connections to the land, which were often tied to its natural features and resources. While there isn't a single, overarching name that these tribes used for the entire region now known as Idaho, their presence and cultural heritage remain an essential part of the state's history.
Nicknames: The Gem State
Today, Idaho is affectionately known as “The Gem State.” This nickname is a nod to the state’s rich mineral resources, including star garnets, opals, jade, and sapphires. Idaho is one of the few places in the world where star garnets are found, adding a unique sparkle to the state's identity.
Idaho's journey to its name and nickname reflects a fascinating blend of historical twists and turns. Though "Idaho" might have originated from a fabricated tale, it ultimately stuck, and the state has since embraced its unique moniker, “The Gem State”, as a tribute to its natural treasures. And while the original names given to the land by its Native American inhabitants might not be widely known, their legacy and connection to the land continue to shape Idaho's cultural landscape.
