Iowa: Before the Hawkeye State
The land we now call Iowa was home to various Native American tribes, including the Ioway, Sauk, Meskwaki, and many others. Each tribe had its own name for the region, often reflecting its natural features or relationship with the land. From whom the state derives its name, the Ioway people called themselves “Baxoje,” which translates to “the grey snow.”
Early European Influences
As European explorers and traders arrived in the 17th century, the region became known by different names based on the colonial powers who sought to claim it. The French, who had a significant presence in the area, called it part of “La Louisiane” or Louisiana……