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Wisconsin’s history began long before its admission to statehood in 1848. The origin of the name Wisconsin is derived from an Anglicized version of a French translation of the Ojibwe Indian word Meskousing, meaning "gathering of the waters." The French metamorphosed this to Ouisconsin, which eventually became the modern English state name. Early peoples included Effigy Mound cultures. When the Europeans first arrived to the area in the 17th century, the Huron, Ottawa, and Ojibwe Indians called the land their home. The French controlled the Wisconsin area until 1763, at which time it was given to the British. Eventually Wisconsin joined what was the Northwest Territory of the United States, and became its own Wisconsin Territory before entering statehood as the nation’s 30th state.
The "Badger State" gets its nickname from its history of mining. Wisconsin’s mining history centered on lead sulfide, or galena. During a rush for lead mining, Wisconsin was the leader of the nation in lead production. The miners actually lived in the mines at first, giving them the badger nickname.
Many famous individuals have called Wisconsin home. Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the famed Little House books, was born here. Other notable Wisconsinites include Georgia O’Keefe, Spencer Tracy, William H. Rehnquist, Orson Welles, Frank Lloyd Wright, Les Paul, Liberace, and Gene Wilder.
Wisconsin’s interesting history promises to unfold yet again, as the burgeoning biotechnology industry of the state takes center stage. Wisconsin seems assured to live up to its motto, "Forward."
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