The state of Missouri has played an important role in the history of the United States and in particular westward expansion. While the modern history of Missouri owes much to early pioneers, early settlers in Missouri also owe much to the Native American tribes living in the area when the settlers arrived. From Lewis and Clark to Daniel Boone, many well-known public figures have made their mark on Missouri history.

One of the unique aspects of early Missouri history are the so-called Mound Builders living in the area prior to 1673. The name Mound Builders refers to Native American people who built mounds of dirt to serve the purposes of burial, residential and ceremonial activities. Although the mounds have by now all been destroyed, the city of St. Louis is sometimes still referred to as the Mound City.

Although first a part of the Louisiana Purchase, Missouri history goes on to reflect the many European settlers that came to Missouri beginning in the 17^th century and progressing on through the 19^th. The history of Missouri as a state began in 1821, when Missouri was admitted into the United States. In these early days, the history of Missouri was that of a state that was referred to as the Gateway to the West. This was because it was for many years the final stop for pioneers headed west.

Missouri Map

Just forty years after it became a part of the United States, Missouri state history shows that Missouri seceded from the Union as a slave state during the Civil War. Missouri would later go on to be admitted back into the Union, and would also be one of the first states to open a college for African American men. Missouri state history also shows that the state was the 11^th state to give women the vote in the early 20^th century.

President Harry S. Truman was from Independence, Missouri, and often referred to the state of Missouri by its nickname, the “Show Me State”. The state has also been referred to by its nickname “Missoura”. Travelers interested in further Missouri state history can also take a trip to the Missouri History Museum.

The Missouri History Museum is located in St. Louis, Missouri and is a first-class museum showing Missouri state history through various kinds of media. The Missouri History Museum is open daily. Admission to the museum is free, but patrons who wish to see special exhibits will be asked to pay a fee. Museum-goers will photos, videos, memorabilia and many displays about the city of St. Louis and the state of Missouri.