Bryan McAllister’s personal reference notebook
September 12, 2026Short & citedBlog
Civic Viewpoint.
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Music Box • Geography

Idaho

Idaho is a state in the northwestern United States.

Updated September 12, 20261 min readCited sources

Idaho is a state in the northwestern United States, known for its mountains and agriculture. It became the 43rd state in 1890, with Boise as its capital.

What it is

Idaho is a U.S. state in the northwestern part of the country, bordered by Canada and six other states. It became the 43rd state on July 3, 1890, and its capital and largest city is Boise.

Key details

Idaho covers 83,569 square miles, making it the 14th-largest state. Its nickname is the Gem State, and it is known for potato production, mountainous terrain, and mineral resources. The highest point is Borah Peak.

Why it matters

Idaho's economy relies on agriculture, mining, and tourism. It is a major producer of potatoes and gemstones. Its northern border with British Columbia makes it a key U.S. state adjacent to Canada.

In short

  • Idaho is the Gem State.
  • It borders Canada to the north.
  • Boise is the capital and largest city.
  • Known for potatoes and gemstones.
Canadian angle

Idaho borders British Columbia to the north, making it one of the U.S. states directly adjacent to Canada.

Quick questions

What is Idaho?
Idaho is a U.S. state in the northwestern part of the country.
When did Idaho become a state?
Idaho became the 43rd U.S. state on July 3, 1890.
What is Idaho known for?
Idaho is known for mountains, outdoor recreation, potatoes, and gemstones.

Sources

  1. Idaho Capitol Commissionhttps://capitolcommission.idaho.gov/education/facts-about-idaho/
    Supports: Statehood date, capital, nickname, area, highest point, lowest point, and other state facts.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/place/Idaho
    Supports: General overview, area, population, statehood date, capital, and regional classification.
  3. National Geographic Kidshttps://kids.nationalgeographic.com/geography/states/article/idaho
    Supports: Borders, geography, statehood, and major physical regions.
  4. U.S. Census Bureauhttps://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USCENSUS/bulletins/363512b
    Supports: Statehood anniversary, area rank, largest city, and state facts.