Map of Land Affected by the Treaty
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed in 1848, ending the war between Mexico and the United States. In return for fifteen million dollars from the United States, Mexico gave up the land that became California, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Arizona, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. Texas also became part of the United States.
Comstock Lode was discovered in Nevada in 1859. This time the metal was silver, and a “silver rush” took place similar to the gold rush ten years earlier. By 1882 the mines had produced $397,000,000 worth of silver. However, by 1898 the mines were pretty much played out.
Hoover Dam
Hoover Dam (originally Boulder Dam) was dedicated in 1936. The dam, located at the border of Nevada and Arizona, captures water from the Colorado River. Constructed between 1931 and 1936, it was a marvel at the time and remains an amazing structure. The dam created Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States. The dam controls flood waters and provides hydroelectric power to Nevada, Arizona, and California. It is also quite a tourist attraction. Children can learn some SUPER facts at: Hoover Dam.
Nevada Flag
Nevada became the thirty-sixth state of the United States in 1864. Its name comes from a Spanish phrase meaning “snow-covered.” Its nicknames are the Sagebrush State and the Silver State. Carson City is the state capital. It was explored in 1776, but the first settlement was not built until 1849. In 1859 the Comstock Lode was discovered, and mining fever took over. In 1931 gambling became legal. Children could visit a website at: America’s Library. Idea: Students could pretend they were miners in old Nevada. What materials would they need to buy before they could amble on out to their stake?