Guide Note

Located in the North Central region of the United States, Wisconsin officially became a state in 1848. Bordered by Michigan, Iowa, Minnesota and Illinois, it also sits on the banks of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. Known as "America's Dairyland", Wisconsin produces the most cheese of any U.S. state. Nearly half of the state is covered by forest land, with manufacturing and agriculture comprising the majority of the state's economy

Fast Facts

1. Capital: Madison
2. Governor: Jim Doyle
3. Population: 5,556,506
4. Statehood: May 29, 1848
5. Time Zone: CST
6. Major cities: Milwaukee, Madison, Eau Claire, Green Bay
7. State bird: Robin
8. State flower: Wood Violet
9. State animal: Badger
10. State beverage: Milk
11. State dance: Polka
12. Nickname: The Badger State

Originally inhabited by the Ho-Chunk Native American tribe, the French came to Green Bay in 1634 forming a port to support fur trade. The United States gained control of the land in 1783, making it part of the Northwest Territory in 1787. Wisconsin officially became a state on May 29, 1848.

Wisconsin is home to the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League. Their fans, known as "Cheeseheads," show appreciation of the team and of the dairy producing state by wearing hats that resemble large wedges of cheese. The Milwaukee Brewers of Major League Baseball also call Wisconsin home.