How Arkansas Became a State

The state of Arkansas is located in the southern region of the United States and is known for its diverse landscape, which includes mountains, forests, and the Mississippi River. Arkansas is also known for its rich history, which dates back to the early 1800s when it was part of the Louisiana Purchase.

This short article will explore the history of Arkansas and how it became a state in 1836. It will look at the various events and people that played a role in the state's formation, including the Native American tribes that inhabited the area and the settlers who moved to the region. Additionally, it will discuss the role of the federal government in the process of Arkansas becoming a state. Finally, it will cover the impact that Arkansas has had on the nation since its statehood.

Pre-Statehood

Pre-European Exploration

Before Europeans arrived in the area that is now Arkansas, the region was home to several Native American tribes, including the Quapaw, Caddo, Osage, and Cherokee. These tribes had lived in the area for centuries, and had developed a complex system of trade and culture. The Europeans who first arrived in Arkansas were Spanish explorers, who were looking for a route to the Pacific Ocean. They encountered the Native American tribes and established trading posts in the area. The Spanish also brought with them their own culture and religion, which had an influence on the Native Americans.

European Exploration

The first Europeans to explore Arkansas were the French, who established a trading post in the area in 1686. The French were followed by the Spanish, who established a colony at Arkansas Post in 1721. The Spanish also established several missions in the area, which were intended to convert the Native Americans to Catholicism. The French and Spanish both had a significant influence on the culture of Arkansas, introducing new languages, foods, and customs. The French and Spanish also brought with them the concept of slavery, which was adopted by the Native American tribes. By the late 1700s, the area that is now Arkansas was a mix of French, Spanish, and Native American cultures.

Statehood

Territorial Period

The first settlers in Arkansas were French explorers who arrived in the late 1600s. The area was then ceded to the United States in 1803 as part of the Louisiana Purchase. In 1819, Arkansas was organized as the Territory of Arkansas and was governed by the Arkansas Territorial Legislature. During this period, the population of the territory grew steadily, with settlers coming from the east and south. The economy of the territory was largely based on agriculture, with cotton being the main crop. The territorial period saw the establishment of several towns and cities, such as Little Rock, which would later become the state capital.

Admission to the Union

In 1836, the Arkansas Territorial Legislature passed a resolution calling for the formation of a state government. This resolution was approved by Congress, and Arkansas was admitted to the Union on June 15, 1836. The state constitution was adopted in 1836, and the first state legislature was elected in 1837. Arkansas was the 25th state to join the Union and the first state to be formed from the Louisiana Purchase. After statehood, the population of Arkansas continued to grow, and the economy shifted to include manufacturing and industry. Today, Arkansas is a thriving state with a population of over 3 million people.

Post-Statehood

Political Developments

After Arkansas became a state in 1836, the political landscape of the state began to take shape. The first state constitution was adopted in 1836, and the state government was organized the following year. The state government was divided into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. The executive branch was led by the governor, who was elected by the people. The legislative branch was composed of the Senate and House of Representatives. The judicial branch was made up of the Supreme Court and several lower courts.

The first governor of Arkansas was James Sevier Conway, who served from 1836 to 1840. He was followed by Archibald Yell, who served from 1840 to 1844. During this period, the state government focused on establishing a public education system, improving transportation infrastructure, and creating a more stable economy.

Economic Developments

In the early years of statehood, Arkansas’ economy was largely based on agriculture. Cotton was the main crop, and it was grown on large plantations. The state also had a thriving timber industry, which provided lumber for the construction of homes and other buildings.

In the late 19th century, the state’s economy began to diversify. The mining industry began to grow, as did manufacturing. The state also developed a strong tourism industry, as people from all over the country began to visit the state’s natural beauty.

In the 20th century, Arkansas’ economy continued to diversify. The state developed a strong technology sector, and several large companies opened offices in the state. The state also developed a strong service sector, with many businesses providing services to the growing population. The state also developed a strong agricultural sector, with many farmers growing a variety of crops.