Just About Everything You Want To Know About Colorado
The Beautiful 38th State of the United States
Issue #377 Friday Funday August 4, 2023
Next month in September, Keith and I will celebrate our 25th anniversary. We met in Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1998, and got married in Detroit in 1998 where we still live today. I am from Michigan and he is from Colorado.
In a previous #FridayFunday article, I wrote about my home state of Michigan.
For this article, we're going to learn a lot about Keith's home state of Colorado.
#FunFact: Keith's late Dad, Sebastian Owens, was the State of Colorado Director for the Urban League.
The History of Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado has a fascinating history, a diverse population, and an array of outdoor adventures. Colorado is a true gem of the American West.
1. A Tapestry of History:
Colorado's name is derived from the Spanish word for "colored red," paying homage to the red sandstone formations found in its canyons. Colorado's early inhabitants included Native American tribes such as the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho, who lived on the land for centuries.
2. The Gold Rush and Beyond:
The 1859 Pikes Peak Gold Rush put Colorado on the map, attracting thousands of fortune seekers in search of riches. Denver, the state capital, grew rapidly and became a hub of commerce and culture. Today, remnants of the 19th century can still be found in the charming Victorian architecture of cities like Central City and Leadville.
3. Natural Wonders:
The crown jewel of Colorado is the Rocky Mountain range. Pikes Peak and Longs Peak, offer breathtaking vistas and countless opportunities for outdoor adventures. The state's national parks, such as Rocky Mountain National Park and Mesa Verde National Park, preserve unique ecosystems.
4. The Cultural Melting Pot:
Colorado has a rich blend of cultures and traditions, with influences from Native American, Hispanic, African American, and European communities. Celebrations like the Cinco de Mayo Festival, the Denver Chalk Art Festival, and the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival are just a few examples of the vibrant cultural events that happen throughout the year.
5. Craft Beer and Culinary Delights:
Colorado is also known for its thriving craft beer scene and culinary delights. The state is home to numerous award-winning breweries and distilleries, where you can sample a wide variety of locally crafted beverages.
“We Are Speaking,” which we publish seven days a week, is financially supported by our paid subscribers and by your investments in the products and services offered by the Global Creative Community Branding and Marketing Academy. Please make sure to view and act on the important information at the end of this article to help support and grow “We Are Speaking.” Thank you!
Colorado's Political History: From the Early Days to the Present
In 1858, the Pike's Peak Gold Rush brought a wave of settlers to Colorado, leading to the establishment of the Colorado Territory in 1861.
The territory's political landscape was largely shaped by the mining and railroad industries, with conflicts arising over land ownership and control.
Prominent political figures during this era include William Gilpin, the first territorial governor, and John Evans, who played a crucial role in the development of railroads.
The issue of slavery played a significant role in Colorado's path to statehood, with tensions between pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions.
In 1876, Colorado became the 38th state and adopted a progressive state constitution that granted suffrage to women, making it a pioneer in women's rights.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a period of progressive reforms in Colorado, driven by a desire for social and political change.
Progressive governors such as John F. Shafroth and Alva Adams championed issues like child labor laws, workers' rights, and women's suffrage.
The Colorado Labor Wars of the early 1900s, particularly the Ludlow Massacre in 1914, highlighted the intense struggles between labor unions and mining corporations.
The United States Air Force Academy opened in 1954 in Colorado Springs.
The mid-20th century saw the rise of political figures such as Ralph Carr, who famously opposed the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.
Colorado's political landscape started shifting towards a more conservative ideology in the latter half of the 20th century.
Colorado is home to several conservative organizations that serve as a counterpoint to the state's progressive tendencies.
Some of the most conservative organizations include the Independence Institute, which has a libertarian perspective, the Centennial Institute, affiliated with Colorado Christian University, the Mountain States Legal Foundation, a public interest law firm, and the Colorado Family Action, a socially conservative group.
Notable political figures of this era include Richard Lamm, who served as governor for three terms, and Gary Hart, a prominent senator and presidential candidate.
In recent years, Colorado has been at the forefront of progressive policies, including the legalization of recreational marijuana in 2012.
The state has also witnessed debates and legislative action on issues such as renewable energy, LGBTQ+ rights, gun control, and immigration.
In the 2020 election, Colorado played a pivotal role, with its 9 electoral votes going to Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
From its early history marked by the influence of indigenous tribes, the Pikes Peak Gold Rush, and the establishment of the Colorado Territory in 1861, to its growth as a cultural melting pot with rich traditions and a thriving craft beer scene, Colorado has a fascinating story.
Colorado's natural beauty is unparalleled, with the dramatic Rocky Mountain Range as its crown jewel. Its national parks preserve distinct ecosystems and the state's commitment to environmental conservation. Colorado's red sandstone formations, from which the state derives its name, add to the state's picturesque beauty.
Let us know your thoughts about what new information you learned in the comments or in the Substack Notes feature.
You can always leave any questions in the comments or email us.
You can also receive up to six months of a paid subscription for referring people to us with the Share Button or the Refer Button.
This article is free to access for 1 week after publication. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber for $5/month or less to access all of the articles, the entire archive, and other benefits.
This is your chance to support everything Keith and Pam do. We appreciate you!
Purchase and download your copy of the “Branding And Marketing For The Rest Of Us” eBook for Independent Authors and Creative and Solo Professionals and other valuable eBooks.
Enroll in one of the 6-course bundles designed especially for you: “Author and Book Marketing” and/or “Essential Creative Marketing.”
Purchase your copies of “Detroit Stories Quarterly” issues.
Purchase your copies of “The Mayonnaise Murders” Parts 1, 2, and 3
What else do Keith and Pam do?
Where else can you find us?
Click the link below to learn everything you need to know and review everything we offer for independent writers and creative and solo professionals.