1. Idaho becomes a state
On December 19, 1890, Idaho officially became the 43rd state in the United States. Prior to this date, Idaho had been a territory for over 26 years.

2. The Gem State
Idaho is often referred to as the "Gem State" due to its abundance of natural resources and minerals. Some of the most popular gems found in Idaho include opals, star garnets, and jasper.

3. The Battle of the Big Hole
On August 9 and 10 of 1877, a battle between the U.S. Army and a group of Nez Perce Indians took place at what is now known as the Big Hole National Battlefield in southwestern Montana. While the battle itself did not occur on December 19, it is notable that Chief Joseph and his band of Nez Perce crossed the Bitterroot Mountains into Idaho on this day during their attempted flight to Canada.

4. Sun Valley Resort opens
On December 19, 1936, Sun Valley Resort officially opened in central Idaho. Developed by the Union Pacific Railroad, Sun Valley is one of the first winter resorts in the United States and was a major destination for Hollywood celebrities in the 1940s and 1950s.

5. Idaho's state seal adopted
On March 14, 1891, Idaho officially adopted its state seal, which features a miner with pick and shovel standing in front of a shield with a river, a forest, and mountains in the background. The words "State of Idaho" appear above the seal and the state motto, Esto Perpetua (Latin for "Let it be perpetual"), appears below. The seal helps to symbolize Idaho's rich history and natural beauty.