Population: 1 584.985 thousand people (2011)
Area: 216632.0 sq. km
In the Northwest of the United States is one of the states of the country – Idaho, which borders in the north on the Canadian province of British Columbia and six American states. The capital city of Boise is the largest city in the state. Here are the main state institutions of Idaho, in particular the legislature (legislative assembly).
On the territory of the state developed: agriculture, mining and scientific and technical sector. In the middle of the 19th century, gold deposits were discovered on the lands of Idaho, which attracted a significant part of the settlers to these places. In July 1890, the territory of Idaho received the status of a state, which became the 43rd in a row.
The first inhabitants of what is now Idaho were the Paleo-Indians who lived here in the 13th millennium BC. The largest tribes in terms of numbers were the non-Persians and the Paiutes. At the time when the Europeans appeared on the lands of the state, the number of Indians was about eight thousand.
Members of the expedition of Lewis and Clark were the first foreigners who appeared on the Indian lands of the present state. By the middle of the 19th century, the stocks of furs, which were actively mined in these places, were significantly reduced. But in connection with the discovery of huge deposits of gold and the influx of prospectors, settlements began to form and grow on the territory of the present state, which eventually turned into cities.
The terrain of the state is mostly mountainous. Climate heterogeneity is affected by maritime air currents that are directed to the state from the Pacific Ocean. In southern Idaho lies the Snake River Valley, which occupies almost a quarter of the entire area of the state. Here are the largest cities – Boise, Caldwell, Idaho Falls, Pokatelo, several navigable rivers and about two thousand lakes, the largest of which is Pand Orey. In the Lost River valley is Bora Peak, which is the highest point in Idaho. At the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers, Lewiston is the lowest point in Idaho.
BOISE
Population: 205.671 thousand people (2010)
Area: 165.8 sq. km
Founded: 1863
City status since: 1864
Time zone: UTC-7, summer UTC-6
The capital of Idaho is its largest city, Boise. It is located in the west of the state, in the district of Ada. The river that runs through the city is also called the Boise.
Before the arrival of the colonists, the Boise area was inhabited by non-Persian and Paiute Indians. The first Europeans here were the French, miners and fur traders. They established a fort here in the 1830s, naming it Boise (from the French word for timber). Soon it was abandoned, but in 1853 it was restored by the US Army. The favorable location of the fort was reflected in its growth. Not far from Boise was the Oregon Highway and there were silver mines. Already in 1866, the noticeably grown city “intercepted” the status of the capital of Idaho from Lewiston.
Boise is interesting because the largest Basque diaspora in the United States lives here, the main employer is the state, and the main mode of transport is a bicycle. Boise has restaurants and hotels, but most of the attractions are outside the city limits. These are natural parks in the surrounding mountains and the river valley, recreation areas and hot springs.
Caldwell, Idaho
Caldwell, a city in southwestern Idaho, has a history shaped by agriculture, railroad development, and community resilience. Nestled in the Treasure Valley, Caldwell’s story reflects the broader narrative of the American West, and its climate plays a crucial role in supporting the region’s agricultural endeavors.
The history of Caldwell can be traced back to the late 19th century when the Oregon Short Line Railroad, a subsidiary of the Union Pacific Railroad, played a pivotal role in the city’s development. In 1883, the railroad established a station in the area, contributing to the influx of settlers and the subsequent growth of Caldwell as a transportation hub.
Agriculture became a cornerstone of Caldwell’s economy, with the fertile soils of the Treasure Valley supporting a variety of crops. The city’s early years saw the cultivation of apples, cherries, and other fruits, earning Caldwell a reputation as the “Apple Capital of Idaho.” The Idaho-Oregon Land Improvement Company, a subsidiary of the railroad, played a crucial role in promoting agricultural development by encouraging settlers to establish orchards and farms.
Caldwell’s growth was further propelled by the establishment of the College of Idaho in 1891. The college, originally founded as the Albertson College of Idaho and later renamed, contributed to the intellectual and cultural development of the community. Today, it stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to education.
The city faced challenges during the Great Depression, but the resilience of the community and the agricultural sector helped Caldwell weather the economic downturn. Post-World War II, the city experienced suburban expansion, and the growth of the food processing industry further solidified Caldwell’s status as an essential economic center in southwestern Idaho.
According to Recipesinthebox, Caldwell’s climate is characterized by hot summers and cold winters, typical of a high desert region. Average high temperatures in the summer months range from the mid-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (29-35°C), while winter highs generally range from the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (2-7°C). The region experiences relatively low humidity levels, contributing to the arid conditions.
The climate supports the cultivation of a variety of crops in the surrounding agricultural fields. Irrigation systems, including those derived from the nearby Boise River, have been crucial in sustaining the region’s agriculture, allowing for the continued growth of crops like sugar beets, onions, and various grains.
Caldwell is known for its annual celebration, the Caldwell Night Rodeo, one of the largest rodeos in the Pacific Northwest. This event, which began in 1925, showcases the city’s Western heritage and agricultural roots, attracting visitors from across the region.
In recent years, Caldwell has experienced growth and development, with an emphasis on preserving its historical character while adapting to modern needs. The Indian Creek Plaza, a downtown revitalization project, has become a central gathering place, featuring public spaces, events, and a farmers’ market.
Caldwell’s rich history is also reflected in its architectural heritage. The Caldwell Train Depot, built in 1907 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as a reminder of the city’s railroad history. The Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History, located on the College of Idaho campus, offers insights into the natural and cultural history of the region.
As Caldwell continues to evolve, its history, agricultural roots, and commitment to education remain integral to its identity. The city’s climate, with its distinct seasons and arid conditions, continues to shape the landscape and support the vibrant agricultural activities that have been central to Caldwell’s development since its early days. Today, Caldwell stands as a testament to the endurance of Western communities and their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of changing economic and environmental circumstances.
