South Dakota

        The capital of South Dakota is Pierre. It is the 40th state. It became a state on November 2, 1889. The population is 703,301. The name South Dakota is an Indian word meaning allies or friends. It's nickname is the "Rushmore State." The state motto is "Under God, the People Rule."  The state bird is the ring-necked pheasant. The state tree is the Black Hills spruce. The state flower is the American pasqueflower.  Hail, South Dakota is the song of the state.

        The Sioux called themselves the Dakota or Lakota. That is how the state got some of its name.  In 1874, gold was discovered by the Sioux and was kept by them until they allowed the people to pan for gold. The Sioux were forced to give up their land to the miners and farmers.