Location and Geography
Wyoming is situated in the western region of the United States, within the Rocky Mountains division. It borders Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, and Idaho. The state covers 97,818 square miles, with 97,105 square miles being land areas and 714 square miles covered by water.
Origin of the Name
The name "Wyoming" is a contraction of the Native American word "mecheweamiing," which translates to "at the big plains."
Natural Features and Wildlife
Wyoming features a diverse landscape, including the unique High Plains in the eastern region. The state is home to a variety of animal species, with the bison being especially significant. Bison, adopted as the State Mammal in 1985, are the largest terrestrial animals in North America and were crucial to Native American survival and culture.
State Motto and Significance
Wyoming’s state motto is "Equal Rights," reflecting its historical significance as the first U.S. state to grant women the right to vote and hold public office in 1869. This move was essential for achieving statehood due to the need for sufficient votes from the population.
Additional Facts
Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world, is located within Wyoming and borders Montana and Idaho. Wyoming is sparsely populated but ranks as the 10th largest U.S. state by land area. Notably, the state has only two escalators and was inhabited by various Native American tribes before achieving statehood.