Population: ~1.9 million (2023 estimate) — 38th most populous state
Area: 77,348 sq mi (200,356 km²) — 16th largest state
Seal of Nebraska
Geography
Location: Nebraska is located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is bordered by South Dakota to the north, Iowa and Missouri to the east, Kansas to the south, and Colorado and Wyoming to the west.
Major Landforms:
Great Plains: Nebraska is part of the Great Plains, with vast prairies and rolling hills.
Sandhills: A unique and expansive region of sand dunes covered with grasses, located in the central part of the state.
Pine Ridge: A forested, hilly area in the northwestern corner of the state, rich in wildlife and natural beauty.
Rivers and Lakes: Nebraska has several rivers, including the Missouri and Platte rivers. The state also has a number of reservoirs, such as Lake McConaughy.
Climate: Nebraska experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. It is known for its drastic temperature changes and occasional tornado activity.
Flag of Nebraska
Economy
GDP (2023): ~$130 billion
Major Industries:
Agriculture: Nebraska is one of the top agricultural producers in the U.S., particularly known for corn (hence the nickname “Cornhusker State”), soybeans, and beef.
Livestock and Meat Processing: The state is a leader in beef and pork production, with Omaha being a major hub for meatpacking.
Insurance and Finance: Omaha is home to several large insurance companies and is the headquarters for Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway.
Renewable Energy: Wind energy is a growing sector, with Nebraska having vast potential for wind farms.
Key Exports: Corn, soybeans, beef, pork, and manufactured goods.
Demographics
Diversity:
Ethnic Breakdown:
White: 83%
Hispanic/Latino: 12%
Black/African American: 4%
Asian: 2%
Other/Mixed: 3%
Languages: English is the primary language, with Spanish becoming increasingly common, especially in urban areas.
Religions: Predominantly Christian, with Protestantism being the dominant faith, followed by Roman Catholicism.
History
Native American Heritage: Nebraska was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Pawnee, Otoe, and Lakota Sioux.
Lewis and Clark Expedition: In 1804, the famous explorers passed through Nebraska as part of their journey to the Pacific Northwest.
Homestead Act: Nebraska was one of the states most impacted by the Homestead Act of 1862, with thousands of settlers moving west to claim land.
Railroad Development: The construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, which linked the eastern U.S. with the West Coast, passed through Nebraska, greatly influencing its growth.
Statehood: Nebraska was admitted to the Union as a free state, following the end of the Civil War.
Culture and Landmarks
Chimney Rock: A unique geological formation in western Nebraska that was an important landmark for pioneers traveling on the Oregon Trail.
Carhenge (Alliance): A quirky roadside attraction modeled after Stonehenge but made entirely of vintage American cars.
Henry Doorly Zoo (Omaha): One of the world’s most renowned zoos, known for its indoor rainforest and desert dome.
Scotts Bluff National Monument: A historic landmark that was a significant point for settlers traveling westward on the Oregon Trail.
Nebraska State Capitol: Located in Lincoln, this unique art-deco building is known for its stunning architecture and impressive murals.
Ashfall Fossil Beds: A paleontological site that showcases the fossils of prehistoric animals from 12 to 14 million years ago.
Famous People from Nebraska
Warren Buffett: Business magnate, investor, and philanthropist, often referred to as the “Oracle of Omaha.”
Marlon Brando: Legendary actor known for his roles in The Godfather and A Streetcar Named Desire, born in Omaha.
Fred Astaire: Iconic dancer, singer, and actor, born in Omaha.
Johnny Carson: Former late-night talk show host, born in Corning.
Nick Nolte: Actor known for his roles in The Prince of Tides and 48 Hours, born in Omaha.
Fun Facts
Nebraska produces more popcorn than any other state in the U.S.
The state is home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest, located at the Henry Doorly Zoo.
The state has more miles of river than any other state, totaling more than 9,000 miles.
Nebraska is one of the top states for wind energy production.
The state has no professional sports teams but is home to passionate college sports fans, particularly for the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers football team.
State Symbols
State Bird: Western Meadowlark
State Flower: Goldenrod
State Tree: Eastern Cottonwood
State Reptile: Horned Lizard
State Song: “Beautiful Nebraska”
Outdoor Activities
Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: The Sandhills and Pine Ridge offer prime hiking and wildlife watching, particularly for bird enthusiasts.
Fishing and Boating: Nebraska has a variety of lakes and rivers, making it ideal for fishing and water sports.
Hunting: The state is popular for pheasant hunting, and it also has abundant opportunities for hunting deer, turkey, and waterfowl.
Cycling: The Cowboy Trail, the longest rails-to-trails project in the U.S., offers cycling routes through scenic Nebraska landscapes.
Stargazing: Nebraska has several dark-sky parks perfect for stargazing, including Cherry County’s Sandhills and the state’s many rural areas.
Education
Notable Universities:
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.
Creighton University (Omaha), a private Catholic university with a focus on health sciences and law.
Nebraska Wesleyan University (Lincoln), recognized for its liberal arts programs.
