Nebraska's history began with Native American tribes, such as the Omaha and Pawnee, who inhabited the region for thousands of years. European exploration started in the 18th century, with French and Spanish explorers mapping the area. The land became part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, leading to increased settlement and development. In 1867, Nebraska became the 37th state in the United States. The arrival of the Transcontinental Railroad in the 1860s boosted its economy and population. Agriculture, particularly corn and cattle farming, became central to Nebraska's identity, shaping its culture and contributing to its growth as a key state in the Midwest.