And, in the south it is sheltered, and in the west there are regions and.
South Dakota is made up of three regions: the Eastern Region, the Western Region, and the Black Hills Region.
In the Eastern region there are endless plains. Occasionally they give way to hilly terrain. This part of the state is located in the Minnesota River basin. To the west is the James River.
The Western region is located on the Great American Plains. Its territory is dotted with deep ravines and low hills.
The Black Hills region is a long range of low mountain ranges. They were formed as a result of limestone deposits.
The Missouri River flows through the entire state. To the east there are several wonderful lakes.
State history
Several thousand years ago, the first Indian settlements appeared on the territory of the future state. People lived by hunting and fishing, and were also engaged in gathering.
At the beginning of the 14th century, the local population was subjected to brutal extermination. In just a few years, almost all Indian tribes were destroyed.
In the 18th century, the first Europeans appeared on the lands of South Dakota. These were the French. As a result, the state's lands became possessions of French Louisiana.
Only at the beginning of the 19th century the United States bought the lands of the future state. During this period, its territory was subjected to thorough exploration.
In the mid-19th century, the first gold deposit was discovered on the territory of modern Dakota. Gold miners from all over the United States flocked here in search of their share of the treasure. Many lived in looting and theft. Since the American government was inactive, the Sioux Indian tribes decided to stop this outrage on their own. As a result of military clashes, the Indians were defeated and were forced to leave their lands. Despite everything, the Sioux tribes continued to rebel.
In 1930, South Dakota was hit by a severe dust storm. As a result, a huge part of the fertile land was covered with sand. The region's agriculture was severely damaged. The state's economy also declined.
The state's economy stabilized only during World War II. During this period, the state's agricultural industry experienced extraordinary prosperity.
State attractions
The symbol of the state is the picturesque Mount Rushmore. It is a true work of art made by the great American sculptor Hudson Borglum. At the very top of Rushmore, he carved granite sculptures of the most famous US presidents: Roosevelt, Lincoln, Washington and Jefferson.
The beautiful Badlands Natural Park attracts a lot of attention from tourists. The territory of the park is dotted with numerous ravines. The clay banks of the White River turn bright red in the sun. And the underground caves delight you with colorful stalactites.
In western South Dakota lies the magnificent Wind State Park. It is a long chain of caves. One of the most famous is Jewel Cave. Its walls are decorated with various figures consisting of stalactites and stalagmites.
For those who want to enjoy solitude with nature, Custer State Park awaits. It amazes with the diversity of the animal world. Bison, bison, horses and other equally interesting animals found their refuge here. Granite mountain ranges, deep blue lakes and proud impenetrable forests delight in their beauty and splendor. Tourists set up campsites in the park. Here you can go on walking or cycling tours.
Lovers of history and music have the opportunity to visit the Museum of Music, as well as visit the Historical Center of Musical Instruments. Within its walls there are thousands of different instruments belonging to different peoples of the world.
The original Old Courthouse is located in Sioux Falls. Today, a historical museum is located within its walls. The walls of the museum are decorated with numerous frescoes and unique paintings. Here you can learn a lot of interesting things about the history of the city.
Fans of motorcycle rallies are in for an unforgettable experience in the small town of Struggis. Hundreds of bikers from all over the United States flock here twice a year. A museum dedicated to motorcycles and bikers was erected in the city.
An incredible sight awaits visitors to Jewel Cave. It consists of several hundred small and large halls. Its shape is more like a huge labyrinth. The walls of the cave are covered with an amazingly colored mineral - calcite. Depending on the intensity of lighting, they are able to change color, which causes indescribable delight among tourists.
Leisure and tourism
A great ski resort in South Dakota is Terry Peak. Fans of extreme sports have the opportunity to go skiing, and the most adventurous ones can ride snowboards.
The resort area has a huge number of cafes, shops and hotels.
After the founding of the park on Mount Rushmore, the Indians decided to erect a monument to their national hero. So a memorial dedicated to the “fierce” horse appeared nearby. The monument was carved right on top of Rushmore.
On the territory of South Dakota there is a place that local residents are accustomed to calling “lost.” Several million years ago, the lands of this paleontological reserve were inhabited by dinosaurs. Some visitors are fascinated by this place, while others are even frightened.
South Dakota- a state in the north central part of the United States, one of the so-called Northwest Central states. Population 844 8 people (data for 2013). The capital is Pierre, the largest city is Sioux Falls.
Motto: "The power of the people by the will of God."
Official nickname: "Mount Rushmore State", "Coyote State".
The area of the state is 199.9 thousand km. In the north, South Dakota is bordered by North Dakota, in the east by Minnesota and Iowa, in the south by Nebraska, and in the west by Wyoming and Montana.
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The Missouri River flows through the territory of South Dakota from north to south, forming a canyon up to 150 m deep. To the east of the river there are black soil prairies, to the west - the Great Plains.
South Dakota is home to the famous monument to 4 presidents , located in the Black Hills Valley of Mount Rushmore.
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South Dakota Climate
South Dakota has a continental climate with four seasons. Winters are cold and dry, summers are hot and moderately humid. In summer, the average maximum temperature across the state is close to 32 °C, although at night temperatures are close to 15 °C. Winters in most of the state are cold with an average January temperature of −12 °C. The highest temperature was recorded on July 15, 2006 (49 °C), the lowest on February 17, 1936 (-50 °C).
Average annual precipitation varies from 381 mm in the arid western part of the state to 635 mm in the wetter eastern part. Storms with strong winds, thunder and hail often occur in summer. The east of the state is part of the so-called Tornado Alley, with about 30 tornadoes recorded in the state every year. Blizzards and snow storms are frequent in winter.
One of America's most controversial territories is South Dakota(South Dakota). A rich history and impressive development prospects are combined here with high levels of unemployment and poverty.
However, traditions and the heritage of their ancestors are highly valued here, so tourists will not be disappointed when visiting this state.
In the fall of 1889, together with its neighboring state, the state of South Dakota received its status. In the Union he became the fortieth in a row.
The total area of the territory is almost 200 thousand km 2. It is home to 844,877 people - according to this indicator, the state is in one of the last places, at 46th.
The capital of South Dakota is Pyrrhus. The largest city in the region is Sioux Falls.
Story
These lands were discovered by Europeans only in 1743 as a result of an expedition organized by the French. The future state of South Dakota became part of France's colonies in the New World.
South Dakota, 1743
The land was acquired in 1803 as a result of the Louisiana Purchase. After the discovery of gold deposits, a large stream of prospectors poured here, which led to a major confrontation with the Sioux Indians, as a result of which the latter were largely exterminated.
However, after the phenomenon called the “Dust Bowl” and which destroyed a large amount of fertile soil, the state of South Dakota was abandoned by the bulk of the inhabitants, which significantly affected the current state of affairs.
Relief and climate
The state of South Dakota has a very diverse topography. These are plains (some of them belong to the Great Plains), hills, lowlands, mountainous regions, rocks. The region has no access to the sea. The largest bodies of water in the territory are the Missouri and James rivers.
South Dakota State Map:
The climate is continental. Summer is very warm, sometimes hot - the thermometer can rise to 32°C. However, even in July the nights can be quite cool.
In winter, temperatures can drop to -12°C. The state of South Dakota is located on “Tornado Alley” - this phenomenon is recorded here about 30 times every year.
Demography
Most of the population are white residents. A fairly large percentage is occupied by Indians (8.5%) - on this point, the state of South Dakota ranks 3rd in the country. There are few African Americans - only 1.2% (slavery was not developed here).
The leading religion is Christianity. Most of the population preaches Protestantism. There are especially many Lutherans in this movement. Catholicism takes second place - 25% of the population. Atheists 8%.
Economy
The state of South Dakota is one of the poorest in the country. This is due to the small population, as well as soil characteristics and historical events. The most developed area is the service sector. These are trade, tourism, finance, and the medical industry.
Cattle and pigs are raised in the region. They grow corn, soybeans, and wheat. The state of South Dakota produces large quantities of ethyl alcohol and ranks 6th in America for this parameter.
Also, until 2002, gold was mined here, but after the development of the deposits, the mines were closed.
Education
The large number of schools makes South Dakota the leader in the share of primary and secondary educational institutions per capita. There are several large universities here. The most significant are two of them:
- South Dakota State University. The largest in the region. Located in Brookings. It teaches more than 12.5 thousand students.
- University of South Dakota. The oldest in the state - founded in 1862. It is here that the only law and medical colleges in this territory are located.
Attractions
The state of South Dakota dates back to the period of the development of the Wild West, which left a big imprint on its culture.
Various festivals dedicated to historical heritage and events are held here every year.
Tourists will be interested in coming here for the Day of 76 (Deadwood) or St. Patrick's Day holiday.
Deadwood City
Indian meetings are held in the region - pow-wows, at which national songs and dances are performed, the peculiarities of Indian culture are discussed, traditions are remembered and revived.
The state of South Dakota is also famous for its monument carved on Mount Rushmore. It contains portraits of four US presidents.
The landscapes are unusual and breathtaking. In national forests and parks you can see steep hills sharpened by erosion, numerous prairies, and cliffs with sharp peaks. Many of these phenomena are protected as the only ones in the world.
Video
Top 10 Places to Visit in South Dakota:
South Dakota(English) South Dakota, IPA: /ˌsɑʊθ dəˈkoʊtə/ (inf.)) is a state located in the Midwestern United States. Named after the Lakota and Dakota (Sioux) Indian tribes. The state capital is Pierre, the largest city is Sioux Falls.
Geography
South Dakota is located in the north-central United States. The state's area is 199,905 km². In the north, South Dakota is bordered by North Dakota, in the east by Minnesota and Iowa, in the south by Nebraska, and in the west by Wyoming and Montana.
Regions and geology
South Dakota is divided into three regions: eastern South Dakota (Eastern), western South Dakota (Westriver) and Black Hills ("Black Hills"). The Missouri River serves as a boundary between the two main parts of South Dakota, not only geographically, but also socially and politically. South Dakotans themselves consider the Black Hills to be part of the Westriver region, although geographically the Black Hills differ significantly from other regions of South Dakota.
Eastern part South Dakota has higher precipitation levels and flatter topography. Several smaller geological regions are distinguished here: the Coteau des Prairies, the Rugged Till Plains, and the James River Valley. The Coteau de Prairie is a plateau bounded on the east by the Minnesota River valley and on the west by the James River basin. Further west in the James River Valley lie flat lowlands that have been highly eroded. The Rugged Till Plains are an area of rolling hills and fertile soils located in the southeastern portion of South Dakota. Much of eastern South Dakota is formed by layers laid down during the Pleistocene era, about 2 million years ago. The younger layers were the result of several glaciations, which led to the formation of hills and the so-called Tila(clayey soils).
Western part South Dakota is occupied by the Great Plains. West of the Missouri River lies drier, hillier terrain consisting of plains intersected by ravines, steep hills, and outcrops. To the south, east of the Black Hills is the Badlands. Erosion, sediments formed on the bottom of the shallow sea that once covered these areas, and volcanic activity contributed to the formation of the relief of these places.
Black Hills located in southwestern South Dakota and is a massif of low mountains covering an area of 16,000 km². Their height varies from 600 to 1200 m. Here is Harney Peak, the highest point in South Dakota (2,207 m above sea level). The core of the Black Hills is Precambrian sediments 2 billion years old, while their outer ring formed in the Paleozoic 540-250 million years ago. This area is characterized by limestone cliffs, which in ancient times were the shore of an inland sea.
Hydrology
The Missouri is the main river of South Dakota, crossing the state from north to south. Missouri is blocked by dams that divide it into four reservoirs: Oahe (the fourth largest artificial reservoir in the United States), Sharp, Lewis and Clark, and Francis Case.
Hydroelectric dams on the Missouri River generate up to half of the state's electricity.
The eastern part of the state is home to many natural lakes that were formed during the Ice Age. Other important rivers are the Cheyenne, James, Big Sioux and White River. All of them mostly belong to the Missouri basin.
Flora and fauna
Most of South Dakota (with the exception of the Black Hills) is covered with grasses and grasses and belongs to herbaceous community ecosystems. In the river valleys there are deciduous trees: poplar, elm, willow.
Mammals include bison, deer, pronghorn, coyotes and prairie dogs. The common pheasant (the state bird) has adapted well here after being introduced from China. The bald eagle is common near the Missouri River. Rivers and lakes are home to pike perch, carp, pike and other species. Prehistoric paddlefish are found in the Missouri River.
The flora and fauna of the Black Hills differ significantly from the prairies. The low mountains are covered with pine and spruce trees, the animals here include deer, elk, big goat, pine marten and puma, and trout are found in the rivers and lakes.
National parks and monuments
South Dakota is home to several areas managed by the US National Park Service. There are two national parks in the southwestern part of the state. Wind National Park, founded in 1903 in the Black Hills, is an extensive network of caves. Created in 1978, the Badlands features eroded, jagged cliffs surrounded by prairie.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial in the Black Hills was established in 1925. This is a giant bas-relief 18.6 meters high, representing sculptural portraits of four US presidents.
Other national monuments include Jewel Cave, the Lewis and Clark Expedition memorial site, the museum-turned Minuteman missile silo commemorating the Cold War, and the unfinished Crazy Horse Memorial.
Story
The territory of modern South Dakota was inhabited by people at least several thousand years ago. Its first inhabitants were Paleo-Indians who lived by hunting and gathering, but approximately 5000 BC. e. they disappeared from South Dakota. Between 500 and 800 AD. e. In central and eastern South Dakota lived a semi-nomadic tribe called the Mound Builders. At the beginning of the 14th century, the so-called Crow Creek Massacre occurred - the destruction of an Indian settlement during an intertribal war, when hundreds of men, women and children were killed.
Around 1500, the Arikara tribes settled in the Missouri River Valley. The first Europeans to reach South Dakota were the French expedition of the La Veredry brothers in 1743, at which time this territory was proclaimed French and became part of the large colony of Louisiana. By the early 19th century, the Arikara Indians had been largely displaced by the Sioux.
In 1803, France sold Louisiana to the United States, including South Dakota. Immediately following this, the Lewis and Clark Expedition was organized to explore the acquired lands. In 1817, a trading post was founded on the site of modern Pyrrhus, marking the beginning of American settlements in South Dakota. In 1855, Fort Pierre was acquired by the American army, but the following year the military center was moved to Fort Randall, located to the south. American settlers became more numerous, and in 1858 the Sioux signed a treaty ceding most of present-day South Dakota to the United States. At the same time, the largest cities of modern South Dakota were founded: Sioux Falls (1856) and Yankton (1859).
In 1861, the US government created the Dakota Territory, which included North Dakota, South Dakota, and parts of Montana and Wyoming). The number of settlers from the East Coast and Europe grew rapidly, especially after the completion of the Yankton railroad in 1873.
In 1874, Custer's military expedition discovered gold in the Black Hills, after which prospectors began illegally entering territory promised to the Lakota tribe as part of the large Sioux reservation. Because the US government did not stop the white miners, the Indians began hostilities that ended with the defeat of the Sioux and the division of the large reservation into five parts. However, the Sioux continued to resist forced removal to reservations until 1890, when the last major conflict between them and the U.S. Army occurred, known as the Wounded Knee Massacre.
In the 1930s, a combination of man-made (extensive agriculture and soil degradation) and natural (drought) factors caused a phenomenon called the Dust Bowl. A series of catastrophic dust storms led to the blowing out of huge masses of soil, up to 80% of the prairie area was partially or completely eradicated, and several crops were lost. This phenomenon, combined with the Great Depression, led to an outmigration of population from South Dakota. From 1930 to 1940, the population fell by 7%.
Stabilization of the economy occurred only after the United States entered World War II, which required the mobilization of agriculture and industry. Six large dams were built on the Missouri River, four of them in South Dakota. It provided flood control, provided hydroelectric power, and increased recreational opportunities.
The following decades saw a transformation of South Dakota's economy from being agriculturally oriented to becoming more diversified. Since the 1960s, when the development of the interstate highway network made the attractions of the Black Hills accessible, the tourism industry began to develop rapidly, and since 1981, the growth of the financial sector began associated with the transfer of Citibank's credit card operations center from New York to Sioux. -Fols.
The state of South Dakota became part of the United States on November 2, 1889. It is located in the Midwest of the country. The origin of its name is connected with the name of one of the tribes that lived in this territory several centuries ago. The local economy is dominated by the agricultural-industrial complex.
Brief History
Before the advent of the colonialists, several warring peoples lived here. The most numerous among them were the Dakota, Lakota and Arikara aboriginal groups. The bloodiest conflict between them occurred in the fourteenth century. It went down in history as the Crow Creek Massacre. The first Europeans to arrive here in 1743 were the French. The expedition was led by the La Veredie brothers, who immediately declared the territory French property. After this, the region became part of the Louisiana Colony. Sixty years later, South Dakota was included in the list of lands that France sold to the United States. In the fifties of the nineteenth century, according to an agreement signed by representatives of the Sioux Indians with the American authorities, the aborigines ceded the right to own these lands. The state was officially incorporated into the United States on November 2, 1889.
Geography
The total area of the state is almost 200 thousand square kilometers. It is bordered by Nebraska to the south, Minnesota to the east, North Dakota to the north, Montana to the northwest, and Wyoming to the southwest. The capital of South Dakota is Pierre, and its largest city is Sioux Falls. The state's population is 844,877 people (as of 2013). Its topography is distinguished by three key physiographic regions - the Great Plains in the western part, the lowlands in the east, and the Black Hills mountain range covered with ancient forests. represents a natural boundary between the first two of them. In addition to it, the White River, Cheyenne and James are considered major local waterways.
Climate
The state's territory is dominated by continental climate, which is characterized by hot summers and cold, long winters. Spring and autumn here are very short-lived and at the same time pronounced. In January, temperatures range from 16 to 2 degrees below zero. In July, the thermometers show from 16 to 32 degrees Celsius. In the west, South Dakota is very arid, but average annual precipitation increases as it moves into the east. It should also be noted that the eastern part of the state is located on the so-called tornado alley - destructive whirlwinds can pass through its territory up to thirty times a year.
Economy
Agriculture is the basis of the local economy. The most common crops grown here are wheat, beans and corn. There are no large mineral deposits in the region. Despite this, South Dakota boasts well-established mining of sand, coal, limestone and gravel. The leading direction of industry was the processing of agricultural products, as well as the production of ethyl alcohol. Among other things, the state produces cement, plastic products, metal structures, jewelry, and firefighting equipment.
Tourist attraction
The most significant attractions of the state are located in the mountains. The most famous and popular national memorial is Rock Rushmore. In the thirties of the twentieth century, bas-reliefs of four were carved on one of its slopes. It should be noted that this is one of the most visited sites throughout the country. More than three million travelers from all over the world come here every year. Other places of interest include the Badlands and Wind Cave. If the first of them boasts unique landscapes, then the second has a cave whose length exceeds 220 kilometers (this is the fifth largest in the world). Among other things, South Dakota is famous for the annual rally of bikers, which has been held in the local city of Sturgis for more than seventy years. Several hundred thousand motorcyclists usually take part in it.
