History of Utah

Utah became the 45th state of United States of America on January 4, 1896.

Early History

The Anasazi and Fremont tribes inhabited the region of Utah before it was explored by European explorers. They were a subgroup of Ute-Aztec and built homes in mountain caves and by using straws.

They vanished by 15th century and by 18th century, the region of Utah was settled by Navajo tribes. Navajo, Goshute, Paiute, the Shoshone, and the Ute people were present when the first European explorers reached the region.

European Exploration

In 1540, Spanish explored the southern region of Utah. It was led by Francisco Vasquez de Coronado. The Dominguez-Escalante Expedition, led by two Catholic priests , left Santa Fe in 1776 to explore a route to the coast of California. Utah became a part of Mexico after Mexico achieved its independence from Spain, and became a part of Alta California. After the discovery of Salt Lake by Jim Bridger in 1824, numerous traders and trappers built trading posts in the region.

The Mormon settlement

Before Mormon pioneers entered the region of Utah, it was captured by the US. The members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as Mormon pioneers reached the region on July 24, 1847. The region of Utah officially became a US territory on February 2,1848 by signing the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Mormons created irrigation systems, farms, houses, churches, and schools. The community of Bountiful was settled shortly after 1847. A year later the community of Manti was settled in central Utah. Mormon settlements were established in St. George, Utah, Las Vegas, and San Bernardino.

Statehood

Petition for statehood was suggested in 1849-50, using the name Deseret. It was rejected by the Congress because they were reluctant to give Mormons control of such large territory. Utah territory was created on 1850, with the Compromise of 1850. Utah War was fought between the U.S. forces and Mormon Rebellion in 1857. It was resolved through negotiation. Utah's Black Hawk War was developed during the beginning of 1865. It was one of the deadliest war in the territory of Utah. It was a three-way conflict and resulted in the delay of Mormon expansion and abandonment of some settlements. Utah finally became the 45th state of United States. It was granted statehood on January 4, 1896.

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