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WAWashington History
Washington at a glance
Washington was admitted to the Union on 1889, making it the 42nd state. It joined the country 113 years after the Declaration of Independence. Its capital Olympia has been the seat of state government for most of the state's history.
Native peoples
For thousands of years before European contact, Indigenous peoples lived across what is now Washington. Multiple distinct cultures developed in response to the region's geography — coastal peoples, plains peoples, river-valley peoples, mountain peoples — each with their own languages, governance, and trade networks. European colonization disrupted these civilizations dramatically, often through disease, displacement, and forced removal. Today, Washington's Native heritage is preserved in place names, tribal nations within state borders, and ongoing cultural practices.
Path to statehood
The path from European exploration to statehood typically took decades. Washington was admitted to the Union on 1889, after meeting the requirements set by Congress: sufficient population, a written constitution, and the consent of Congress. The process from initial settlement to statehood was the 103rd time the US expanded.
The modern era
Today Washington has a population of 5 to 10 million and is one of the mid-sized states in the country. The capital is Olympia; the largest city is Seattle. Agriculture remains an important sector of the state economy. Tourism is a major economic driver. The state has no state income tax — one of nine US states with this distinction. The political lean has shifted over time and now leans reliably Democratic.
Key historical sites in Washington
Washington preserves its history through state parks, national monuments, historic districts, and museums. Battlefields, colonial towns, mission sites, Native American heritage areas, and Civil Rights landmarks (where applicable) anchor the state's heritage tourism. Visit the state's official tourism site for a current list.
Bordering states
Washington shares borders with 2 other US states.
Learn US history through daily puzzles
Statedoku uses statehood era, Confederate or Union role, and admission years as recurring constraints. After a month of daily play, you'll know exactly when and how each state joined the Union.
Play today's puzzle →Common questions about Washington history
When did Washington become a state?
Washington became a state in 1889, making it the 42nd state admitted to the Union.
Was Washington part of the Confederacy?
No, Washington was not part of the Confederacy.
Was Washington part of the Louisiana Purchase?
No.
Did Spain or France colonize Washington?
Washington was primarily under British colonial influence.
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