Welcome to the Cornhusker State, where the sunsets are stunning, the people are friendly, and the history is fascinating. Nebraska is a state full of surprises and amazing tales, from the home of the world’s largest indoor rainforest to the birthplace of Kool-Aid. Whether you’re a fan of nature, sports, or just interesting trivia, there’s something for everyone in Nebraska. So, grab a Runza, and let’s discover 20 amazing Nebraska facts that will make you say, “Who knew?”
1-5 Fun Facts About Nebraska
1. Nebraska is the 16th largest state in the United States with a total area of 77,358 square miles (200,356 square kilometers).
2. It’s almost the same size as Kyrgyzstan.
3. With just under 2 million residents, it’s the 14th least populous state in the US.
4. When it comes to farmland and ranchland, Nebraska is the real deal – 92% of the state is covered in the stuff, second only to giants like Texas, Montana, and Kansas. With so much open space, it’s no wonder the state is a hub for agriculture and animal husbandry.
5. The state motto of Nebraska says it all: “Equality Before the Law.”
6-10 Interesting Facts About Nebraska
6. When it comes to official state drinks, Nebraska keeps it simple but delicious. Milk is the official state drink – a nod to the state’s strong agricultural roots and love of all things dairy.
7. Mammoths may be extinct, but their legacy lives on in Nebraska. The state’s official fossil is none other than the mighty mammoth, which roamed the area for millions of years before disappearing around 10,000 years ago.
8. In Nebraska, small towns are the norm – around 90% of them have a population of 3,000 people or less.
9. By median household income, Nebraska ranks 25th among all states.
10. Nebraska is a true popcorn powerhouse! More popcorn is produced in the state than anywhere else in the US, making it a top destination for anyone who loves this salty, buttery snack.
11-15 Awesome Facts About Nebraska
11. Monowi, a village in Nebraska, is unique in the United States for having a population of just one person. Elsie Eiler, the only resident, is not only the mayor of the village but also doubles up as its librarian and bartender. As she is the sole inhabitant, she even pays taxes to herself!
12. A Nebraska man is breeding red cows with the hope that a pure red heifer will be born in Israel. According to tradition, the birth of a pure red heifer will prompt Jews to build a Third Temple, which some fundamentalist Christians believe will bring about Jesus’ Second Coming.
Read More: 25 Facts about Christianity That Make You Say Jesus Christ!
13. Christmas tree theft is no joke – and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln took some extreme measures to combat it. By spraying their trees with fox urine, they created a stench that was so foul it made your eyes water! Anyone who tried to take a tree indoors would soon regret it.
14. In 1913, a Nebraska man threatened to kill his wife and newborn son with a butcher knife. The mother left him, got remarried, and had her son’s name changed to that of his stepfather. The boy, who is now known as Gerald Ford, went on to become the 38th President of the United States.
15. Nebraska has produced some truly impressive and influential people throughout history. From civil rights leader Malcolm X to actor Marlon Brando, from President Gerald Ford to billionaire philanthropist Warren Buffet, Nebraskans have made their mark on the world in a big way.
16-20 Scary Facts About Nebraska
16. Nebraska is one of the ten whitest states in the US, but it’s only in the #10 spot (fun fact: the #1 spot goes to Maine).
17. While it might sound a little silly, there are some unusual laws on the books in Nebraska. For example, it’s technically illegal to burp or sneeze in church.
18. And barbers, beware – if you’re caught eating onions between 7 AM and 7 PM, you could be in trouble for violating an old law designed to keep your breath fresh for your customers.
19. Nebraska has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. The area was first explored by Francisco de Coronado in 1541, who claimed it for Spain. Later, French explorer Robert Cavelier claimed the land for France in 1682, setting the stage for centuries of conflict and competition between different European powers.
20. Nebraska might seem like a peaceful and unassuming state today, but its history is full of intrigue and conflict. Over the years, the area was fought over by the French, Spanish, and British, each one trying to stake their claim and gain a foothold in this rich and promising land.
That’s it for this post guys, I hope you had fun while reading 20 Interesting Nebraska Facts For Students.
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