Nebraska: The Cornhusker State

Introduction

Nebraska is called “The Cornhusker State,” and it’s located right in the center of the United States. Known for its wide-open prairies, friendly people, and strong farming traditions, Nebraska is part of a region called the Great Plains. While many people think of Nebraska as flat and quiet, it’s also full of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting changes in technology and culture.

Quick Fact Box

• State Name: Nebraska
• Nickname: The Cornhusker State
• Capital: Lincoln
• Largest City: Omaha
• Statehood: March 1, 1867 (37th state)
• Population: About 2 million
• State Bird: Western Meadowlark
• State Flower: Goldenrod
• State Tree: Cottonwood
• State Motto: “Equality before the law”
• Major Industries: Agriculture, manufacturing, finance, technology

Where in the USA is Nebraska?

Nebraska is in the Midwestern United States, bordered by South Dakota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and Wyoming. The state is shaped like a rectangle and is mostly part of the Great Plains, which means large, flat lands covered in grasses.

It has two major rivers: the Missouri River forms its eastern border, and the Platte River runs across the state. These rivers have helped shape Nebraska’s geography and history.

Landmarks and Attractions

One of the most famous places in Nebraska is Chimney Rock, a tall rock formation that early pioneers used to guide their wagons west. Another natural wonder is Scott’s Bluff National Monument, which also played a role in the migration along the Oregon Trail.

In Omaha, you’ll find the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, often rated as one of the best zoos in the world. The city also has great art museums, music venues, and historic sites.

Nebraska has many small towns that host county fairs and festivals, and places like the Sandhills region are perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nature.

State Symbols & Emblems

The Western Meadowlark, with its beautiful singing voice, is Nebraska’s state bird. The Goldenrod is the state flower, and the Cottonwood Tree is the state tree. All of these are native to the prairies of Nebraska.

The state motto, “Equality before the law,” appears on Nebraska’s state flag and shows the state’s belief in fairness and justice.

People, Culture & Economy

Nebraska’s culture reflects a mix of Native American, German, Czech, Hispanic, and African American influences. Many Nebraskans are involved in farming, ranching, and community life.

Nebraska’s economy is strongly rooted in agriculture, including:

• Corn – Nebraska grows more corn than almost any other state
• Beef cattle – Ranching is a major industry
• Soybeans and wheat – Other key crops
• Meat processing and food production
• Railroads and transportation – Omaha is a major railroad hub
• Finance and tech – Growing in urban areas like Omaha and Lincoln

Nebraska is also known for college football, especially the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers, whose fans fill the stadium in Lincoln every fall.

Famous People from Nebraska

• Warren Buffett – Billionaire investor, born and lives in Omaha
• Gerald R. Ford – 38th U.S. President, born in Omaha
• Malcolm X – Civil rights leader, born in Omaha
• Johnny Carson – TV host, born in Corning
• Larry the Cable Guy – Comedian, from Pawnee City
• Gabrielle Union – Actress, born in Omaha
• JoJo Siwa – Dancer, singer, YouTuber, born in Omaha
• Dick Cavett – Television personality and author

Climate, Ecosystems & Conservation

Nebraska has a continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and occasional tornadoes in spring and summer. The eastern part of the state gets more rain, while the western part is drier.

The land includes grasslands, prairies, and river valleys. Animals like prairie dogs, deer, badgers, and many kinds of birds live here. The state’s conservation efforts help protect water, soil, and native plants and animals.

Nebraska also has one of the largest underground water sources in the world: the Ogallala Aquifer, which helps farmers irrigate crops.

Government, Education & Everyday Life

Nebraska has a unique government: it’s the only U.S. state with a unicameral legislature, which means it has only one legislative chamber instead of two. The capital is Lincoln, and the governor and lawmakers meet at the Nebraska State Capitol, known for its tall, domed tower.

Nebraska values public education. It’s home to the University of Nebraska system and many strong local schools. Students in rural areas often participate in 4-H, FFA (Future Farmers of America), and sports.

People in Nebraska enjoy small-town life, community events, county fairs, and outdoor fun like fishing, camping, and hiking.

Fun Facts

• Nebraska has more miles of river than any other U.S. state.
• The Reuben sandwich was invented in Omaha.
• The College World Series is held every year in Omaha.
• Kool-Aid was invented in Hastings, Nebraska.
• The state has two time zones—Central and Mountain.
• You can see the wagon ruts from pioneers on the Oregon Trail!
• Nebraska is home to the largest indoor rainforest (at Omaha’s zoo).

Vocabulary Words

1. Prairie – A large, flat area of grassland
2. Unicameral – Having only one house in the legislature
3. Aquifer – Underground layer of water-bearing rock
4. Irrigate – To supply land with water for crops
5. Continental Climate – Climate with big temperature changes between seasons
6. Ranching – Raising animals like cows or sheep for farming
7. Pioneer – A person who explores or settles new land
8. Festival – A public event or celebration
9. Domed – Rounded shape like a half-ball
10. Transportation Hub – A place where lots of roads or railways meet

Kid-Friendly Summary

Nebraska is a fun state full of farms, friendly people, and wide-open skies! It’s known for corn, cattle, and amazing sunsets. You can see cool places like Chimney Rock, watch animals at the Omaha Zoo, or cheer for the Cornhuskers at a football game. Life here is calm, cozy, and full of nature.

Quiz: Test Your Nebraska Knowledge!

    What is Nebraska’s nickname?
    a) The Sunshine State
    b) The Cornhusker State
    c) The Empire State
    d) The Prairie State

    What is the capital of Nebraska?
    a) Lincoln
    b) Omaha
    c) Hastings
    d) Bellevue

    What city has a world-famous zoo in Nebraska?
    a) Lincoln
    b) Kearney
    c) Omaha
    d) Grand Island

    What important water source lies under Nebraska?
    a) Mississippi River
    b) Great Salt Lake
    c) Ogallala Aquifer
    d) Hudson Bay

    What food was invented in Nebraska?
    a) Hamburger
    b) Pizza
    c) Reuben Sandwich
    d) Tacos

    What flower represents Nebraska?
    a) Rose
    b) Sunflower
    c) Goldenrod
    d) Tulip

    What is Nebraska’s legislature called?
    a) Congress
    b) Senate
    c) Unicameral
    d) Assembly

    What landmark guided pioneers westward?
    a) Mount Rushmore
    b) The Grand Canyon
    c) Chimney Rock
    d) Niagara Falls

    Who is the famous investor from Omaha?
    a) Elon Musk
    b) Bill Gates
    c) Warren Buffett
    d) Steve Jobs

    What kind of animal is raised a lot in Nebraska?
    a) Sheep
    b) Pigs
    c) Cows
    d) Goats