History of Washington (state)

Flag of Washington

Probably George Vancouver from NPG

Lewis and Clark Expedition map

Lewis and clark-expedition

Building the redoubt

History of Washington (state)

The History of Washington (state) encompasses the story of how this northwestern part of the United States evolved from being a remote wilderness to becoming the 42nd state in the Union. Washington's history is marked by the influence of Native American cultures, European exploration and settlement, and the push for territorial recognition and statehood, culminating in its admission to the Union on November 11, 1889.

Pre-European Contact

Before the arrival of European explorers, the area now known as Washington was inhabited by Native American tribes. These indigenous peoples had rich cultural traditions and lived off the land, utilizing its abundant resources. Notable tribes include the Chinook, Salish, and Nez Perce, among others. They engaged in fishing, hunting, and gathering, with salmon being a crucial resource.

European Exploration

The first recorded European to sight the region was Spanish explorer Juan de Fuca in 1592. However, it was not until the 18th century that European exploration of the area intensified, with both British and Spanish expeditions mapping the coastline. The British explorer George Vancouver is credited with extensively charting the Pacific Northwest in the 1790s, including what is now Washington's coast.

Fur Trade and Settlement

The early 19th century saw the establishment of the fur trade in the Pacific Northwest. The Hudson's Bay Company, a British enterprise, set up trading posts, the most notable being Fort Vancouver near present-day Vancouver, Washington. This period was marked by competition between British and American traders, influencing the region's subsequent territorial disputes.

Territorial Disputes and the Oregon Treaty

The mid-19th century was a time of significant territorial negotiation between Britain and the United States, culminating in the Oregon Treaty of 1846. This treaty established the 49th parallel as the boundary between British North America and the United States, thus defining the northern border of what would become Washington state.

Territorial Period

Following the Oregon Treaty, the area saw an influx of American settlers, leading to the establishment of the Washington Territory in 1853. This period was marked by conflicts with indigenous peoples, as settlers encroached on their lands, most notably the Puget Sound War and the Yakima War. The territorial government worked on creating infrastructure and establishing the legal and political frameworks for future statehood.

Statehood

After several attempts and growing settler population, Washington achieved statehood on November 11, 1889. The state's economy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries was dominated by timber, fishing, and mining industries, setting the stage for future development and growth.

20th Century to Present

The 20th century saw significant changes in Washington's economy and demographics, with the growth of industries such as aerospace, led by companies like Boeing, and technology, with Microsoft and Amazon establishing significant presences in the state. The state has also been at the forefront of social movements, including environmentalism and the legalization of recreational marijuana.

Washington's history is a reflection of its diverse landscapes, from the coastal regions to the mountainous interior and fertile agricultural valleys. Its evolution from a territory marked by indigenous cultures and European exploration to a modern state is a testament to the complex interplay of various forces and peoples.