1. Idaho became a state on December 1, 1890.
This is perhaps the most significant event to occur on December 1 in Idaho's history. After years of territorial status, Idaho officially became the 43rd state in the United States. It is now celebrated annually as Idaho Day.

2. The world's first nuclear power plant to generate electricity from an experimental reactor went online on December 1, 1951.
Located at the National Reactor Testing Station (now the Idaho National Laboratory), the Experimental Breeder Reactor-I (EBR-I) produced enough electricity to power four light bulbs. This event was a major milestone for nuclear power and helped pave the way for the development of commercial nuclear power plants.

3. The Galena Summit Overpass officially opened on December 1, 1993.
This overpass, located in central Idaho, spans 1,486 feet and is 206 feet high at its highest point. It provides a safer and more efficient route for motorists traveling on Highway 75, which is often closed due to avalanches during the winter months.

4. The Idaho Botanical Garden was established on December 1, 1984.
Originally called the Old Penitentiary Botanical Garden, this 15-acre garden is located in Boise and features a variety of plants, flowers, and trees that are native to Idaho and the Intermountain West. It also hosts a variety of events, including concerts, art exhibits, and plant sales.

5. Idaho native and Olympic gold medalist Picabo Street was born on December 1, 1971.
Street, who was raised in the small town of Triumph, Idaho, became one of the most successful alpine skiers of all time. She won two Olympic medals (including a gold in the super-G event at the 1998 Winter Olympics) and numerous World Cup titles during her career. Today, she is a member of the National Ski Hall of Fame and works as a television commentator for skiing events.