Nevada
Nevada is a state in the western United States known for its vast deserts, rich mining history, and globally recognized entertainment hubs. Admitted to the Union on October 31, 1864—earning it the nickname the “Battle Born State”—Nevada is the 7th largest U.S. state by area but ranks around 32nd in population.[1]
The state's landscape ranges from the snow-capped Sierra Nevada and the shimmering waters of Lake Tahoe to the remote valleys and basin ranges of the Great Basin. Nevada borders California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Arizona, and contains both the **lowest** and **highest** temperatures ever recorded in the U.S. outside of Death Valley.
Government and Structure
Nevada is divided into 17 counties, including major population centers like Clark County (home to Las Vegas) and Washoe County (home to Reno). The state capital is Carson City, which functions as an independent city rather than being part of any county.[2]
Its government consists of an elected governor, bicameral legislature, and state supreme court. The legislature meets biennially in Carson City.
Demographics and Culture
Nevada's population exceeds 3 million people as of 2023, with over 70% of residents living in the Las Vegas metropolitan area.[3] While known for tourism and entertainment, the state also has thriving mining, logistics, and tech industries.
Nevada has a rich Indigenous heritage with 27 federally recognized tribes, including the Northern Paiute, Southern Paiute, Western Shoshone, and Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California. These communities continue to preserve languages, land, and traditions across the state.[4]
Economy and Industries
Historically built on mining—particularly silver and gold—Nevada's economy now includes:
- **Tourism and hospitality** (Las Vegas, Reno, Lake Tahoe)
- **Mining** (Nevada is the top gold-producing state)
- **Renewable energy and logistics**
- **Emerging tech**, including data centers and EV manufacturing
Symbols and Fun Facts
- **State nickname**: *The Silver State*
- **State motto**: *All for Our Country*
- **State bird**: Mountain Bluebird
- **State flower**: Sagebrush
- **Official song**: "Home Means Nevada"
- **Legal oddity**: Nevada is the only state with legalized prostitution in some rural counties
References
- ↑ U.S. Census Bureau. QuickFacts: Nevada. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/NV
- ↑ Nevada State Government. State and Local Government Structure. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from https://nv.gov
- ↑ Nevada Department of Demography. State Population Estimates. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from https://demography.nv.gov
- ↑ Nevada Indian Commission. Overview of Nevada Tribes. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from https://nevadaindiancommission.org