2 Minute History Arkansas

Arkansas, known as the "Natural State," has a rich history that includes the presence of Native American tribes like the Quapaw and Osage. Following the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, Arkansas became a U.S. territory and was admitted as the 25th state in 1836. The state's economy was predominantly agricultural, with cotton as a key crop, relying heavily on slave labor. Arkansas seceded from the Union during the Civil War, experiencing significant battles and political turmoil. The Little Rock Nine crisis in 1957 highlighted the struggle for civil rights in education and marked a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Today, Arkansas is celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural contributions.