The history of North Dakota is very much tied to its geography and climate, which is the first topic presented in this overview. The next topic in our overview deals with the first inhabitants of the region, the Native Americans, and covers the variety of tribes and their cultures. Next we delve into the first Europeans in the area and their explorations and early settlement. As settlement grew, so did the presence of the United States military, the next topic covered. The establishment of the military presence paved the way for our next topic, Dakota Territory and statehood. Unprecedented settlement, our next topic, followed in the wake of the establishment of Dakota Territory. As settlement increased and farming proliferated, our next topic, ranching, was being carried out in the western region of the state. North Dakota politics and the Nonpartisan League, dynamic and fascinating, is the next topic covered. Our final topic, contemporary North Dakota, brings us up to date.

Geography and Climate
Native Americans
Exploration, Fur Trade, & Early Settlement
Military
Dakota Territory and Statehood
Settlement
Ranching
Nonpartisan League in North Dakota Politics
Contemporary North Dakota