History of Wyoming and Gillette

These flashcards cover the key historical concepts and events related to the history of Wyoming and its development, particularly focusing on Gillette.

Plains Indians

Nomadic tribes who frequently moved in and out of the areas that are now Wyoming.

Wyoming Organic Act

Signed on 07/25/1868 by President Johnson, it established the boundaries for Wyoming's territory.

Arapaho, Cheyenne, Crow, Shoshone, Utes

Different tribes of Plains Indians that resided in Wyoming.

Sovereignty

The authority of a state to govern itself; states have more autonomy than territories.

Women's Suffrage

The right for women to vote, granted in Wyoming in 1869, ahead of its statehood.

Johnson County Wars

Conflict that began in 1891 involving powerful cattle barons, known as the invaders, against local cattlemen.

Gillette

Originally named Donkeytown, it became a boom town due to the railroad and natural resources.

Boom Town

A community that experiences rapid population growth due to job opportunities.

Rock Creek Massacre

A violent event in September 1885 where white miners attacked Chinese residents in Rock Springs.

Constitutional Convention

Meeting held by Wyoming's territorial leaders in 1889 to draft a constitution for statehood.

Capital of Wyoming

Cheyenne is the capital city of Wyoming.

Population Requirement for Statehood

Wyoming needed at least 60,000 residents to apply for statehood.

Edward Gillette

Railroad engineer after whom Gillette is named; he found a shorter route for the railroad.

Coal mining

Key industry in Gillette that contributes to its economy, providing 35% of the nation's coal.

Energy Capital of the Nation

Nickname for Gillette due to its significant coal production.