Washington state offers a captivating history, from its early days as a bustling metropolis to the development of aerospace technology. Discover the intriguing tales behind these events and more in our comprehensive guide!
What Happened to the First Settlers?
Despite its comparatively recent founding, Washington was not entirely devoid of inhabitants in pre-1848 America. In fact, it was a haven for those seeking refuge from persecution or seeking new opportunities along the Oregon Trail.
It is believed that Washington originally catered to travellers who sought shelter and sustenance along their way; however, after annexing the territory in 1846 it took on an additional role as a place of respite from a hostile environment. For these intrepid individuals seeking sanctuary in our Pacific Northwest region, they could easily find comfort with its hospitable populace!
The community of Nisqually remains one of Washington’s earliest settlements.
In February 1828, this Native American village–later incorporated into Tacoma – lay deserted as European settlers were granted land grants across the Puget Sound region by the United States government. Over the next decade, Nisqually experienced rapid growth due to its advantageous location along the numerous shipping routes traversing between Eastern ports and San Francisco Bay – eventually leading to its designation as ‘the largest city’ within Washington Territory!
Was Prostitution Legal?
Washington was not immune to the advent of prohibition. In fact, its prohibition movement was relatively successful compared to other states in the nation; by December 1933 only 9% of Washington’s breweries remained operational. The total number of producing breweries nationwide would drop from roughly 3,500 in 1917 to a mere 1,850 units twenty years later.
The elimination of alcohol consumption did not eliminate its illicit nature; so while it was against the law, some cities chose to condone their residents’ involvement in the purchase or even consumption of this liquid intoxicant.
Washington has historically been associated with prostitution, but it was typically relegated to the back alleys and seedy hotels of downtowns across the state. Although never legal and certainly not socially acceptable during this era, brothels were often tolerated rather than actively eradicated as they exist today – however this situation is evolving currently and may very well change again in the future!
What Kind of Slavery Did Slaves Serve in Washington State?
Washington’s first black man, William Dickson, arrived in the territory in 1852; he was one of many African-American pioneers who sought opportunities in these untamed regions.
For nearly fifty years, the Centralia coal mines employed extremely large numbers of slaves. The practice was abolished in 1865 and thereafter – even though Washington remained a slave state until 1864 – slavery itself remained legal under federal law until December 2018, giving rise to its status as an abolitionist haven for over a century.
Today, Washington remains one of the nation’s most ethnically diverse states; it also boasts a thriving economy bolstered by exports of farm produce and high tech manufacturing. Thus it is no surprise that slavery is not commonly referenced here today!
Did Women Have the Right to Vote Early in Washington State History?
Not until the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment on August 26th, 1920 was Washington officially declared an emancipated state, granting women equal opportunity with men to participate in government.
On March 17th, 1919, a full year prior to its proclamation by Congress and ratification by three-quarters of all states in America, Washington became the most recent jurisdiction in the U.S. to grant its women suffrage – setting an example for other jurisdictions across the country!
What Was the Evergreen State’s Original Name?
Washington was officially christened Evergreen by the territorial government in 1859, and evidently out of a concern not to conflict with another existing US state named Evergreen.
Evergreen is an uncommon name choice for a state in the United States, as only 17 others bear it. Washington’s namesake is no stranger either: aside from being one of his most frequently cited bardic names in antiquity, The Odyssey makes frequent use of this appellation throughout its narrative!
Was Marijuana Illegal in Washington State?
On February 26th, 2012 Washington State became the second U.S. jurisdiction to legalize recreational marijuana use at a ballot initiative. The legislation that paved the way for this landmark moment of legalization was passed by voters in November 2014 and went into effect on December 6th, 2015.
Washington residents over the age of 21 can purchase up to one ounce of cannabis flower or eight grams of concentrates such as hash oil; however there’s no limit on possession.
Ganja, as it used to be called before I-502 came along, was outlawed in Washington state as early as 1907, when legislators enacted an Act forbidding its sale within the territory. In 1931 Washington’s legislature raised taxes on it yet again – this time by 20 percent! Amidst this anomaly remained until 1948 when cannabis was finally made fully illegal under state statutes; however individual jurisdictions still maintain their own policies on its sale and regulation
Where Did the Name “Evergreen State” Come From?
The moniker of Evergreen State is part of an early 20th century promotional campaign by the region’s grape growers.
In 1909, Washington’s grapes were touted as among the finest in the nation and were considered suitable for its appellation wine, known as ‘Evergreen.’ Its success at attracting tourists led to the establishment of wineries in central Washington, with many establishments still functioning today.
Conclusion
Delightful Washington State History awaits you, from its earliest days as an international trading port to the Space Needle and the Pacific Northwest’s first McDonald’s restaurant.
