Formerly known as the Land of Opportunity, Arkansas is now known as the Natural State. Located right in the heart of the Southern region of the United States, this dynamic state is home to more than two million people.

Why Study Arkansas State History

So what exactly is the importance of studying Arkansas state history? Basically, learning about Arkansas state history due to the following reasons:

- Learning about Arkansas state history will give you a deeper understanding of the locals and the societies which make up the state.

- The past Arkansas state history will help you understand how certain events took shape, and why they did in the first place.

- Arkansas state history gives the local a sense of identity by knowing and understanding exactly where they came from.

Key Dates in Arkansas\' State History

Now that you have a basic idea about the importance of learning about Arkansas state history, what are the key dates that you need to take note of?

Prior to the arrival of Europeans in the valley, three principal tribes already inhabited the area. This includes:

- Caddo tribe
- Osage tribe
- Quapaw tribe

Now, take a look at the key points in Arkansas state history which helped shape the state to what it currently is:

- 1541
At this point in Arkansas state history, Spaniard Hernando de Soto arrived to explore Arkansas.

- 1673
This was the year that the French explored the Mississippi River.

- 1682
The French claimed the Mississippi Valley for France. Four years later, the first permanent settlement in Arkansas was founded.

- 1762
This was the year when France ceded the Louisiana Territory to Spain -- which included Arkansas. However, it was the French soldiers who continued to man the post of Arkansas.

- 1819
This was a key point in Arkansas state history when the state wide territory was formed.

- 1836
This was the year that Arkansas became the 25th state in the Union.

- 1867
On March 2 of this year, Congress passed the Reconstruction Act. This voided Arkansas\' government, as well as nine other states in the South.

From the 20th century onwards, further developments were made in the state of Arkansas. Today, cities like Little Rock became the pride of the state as being its capital and most populous city.

Also, attractions like the Buffalo National River continue to be a growing attraction, earning Arkansas the nickname of being the Natural State.