December 3 in American History
Illinois joined the Union, a frontier prairie state that would grow to hold Chicago, the crossroads of the continent — and produce Abraham Lincoln's political career. From wilderness to the "Land of Lincoln" in a few decades, it's a compact story of American growth.
In 1818: Illinois becomes the 21st state. Illinois joined the Union, a frontier prairie state that would grow to hold Chicago, the crossroads of the continent — and produce Abraham Lincoln's political career.
Illinois joined the Union, a frontier prairie state that would grow to hold Chicago, the crossroads of the continent — and produce Abraham Lincoln's political career. From wilderness to the "Land of Lincoln" in a few decades, it's a compact story of American growth.
The Daily Poll · Weigh In
What drove America's westward growth most?
Opinion, not a quiz — no wrong answer.
★ Forge Your Freedom
The FreedomMaxxing Daily Brief pairs a history moment like this with what's on your radar today and a live patriot poll — free, 60 seconds.
Take the Free Assessment →