History of Iowa

Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Iowa and create a timeline of events. Students must think about what makes an event truly worthy of being included in the timeline and be able to include detail in their timeline.

For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.

Examples of Important Events in Iowa History

• 1673 - Louis Joliet and Jacques Marquette are the first Europeans to visit Iowa
• 1682 - Robert de La Salle claims Iowa for France as part of the Louisiana Territory
• 1788 - The first permanent settlement is established in Dubuque
• 1803 - Iowa becomes part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase
• 1804 - Explorers Lewis and Clark travel are sent to scope out the land in Iowa. Many people begin settling there.
• 1812 - Iowa becomes part of the Missouri Territory
• 1832 - The Black Hawk War
• 1838 - The Iowa Territory is established
• 1846 - Iowa is the 29th state admitted into the Union on December 28th
• 1857 - Des Moines becomes the capital city
• 1928 - Herbert Hoover, who is from Iowa, is elected the 31st U.S. president

Due Date:

Objective: Create a timeline of 4-6 important events in Iowa’s history.

Student Instructions:

1. Click “Start Assignment”.
2. Use the provided blank template or add cells to your own template as needed.
3. Write the state’s name in the top heading.
4. In the title box, list out each of the events in sequential order and add correct dates.
5. Describe the events in the description boxes.
6. Create an image in each cell that depicts the events, using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.

Requirements: At least 4 events, correct dates, descriptions, and appropriate illustrations for each event.