Montana ACLS Certification and Recertification

MONTANA ACLS CERTIFICATION AND RECERTIFICATION

About Montana

Montana became the 41st state in 1889. The state capitol of Montana is Helena with a population of 27,383 people (2005 Census). Billings is the largest city in the state, with 98,721 people (2005 Census). The total population of Montana is 989,415 people (2010 Census). Montana is comprised of 145,552 square miles of Rocky Mountains in the west, and rolling hills and plains in the remainder of the state. The state flower is the bitterroot. The state bird is the Western meadowlark. Montana was first explored by France in the 1740’s.

During the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, much of the area was acquired by the United States. Until 1846 Great Britain still had claim on the western part of the state, which was then turned over to the United States under the Oregon Treaty in 1846. Montana’s history during the days of Indian Wars and the Civil War is brutal. It was in Montana that the Battle of Little Big Horn, or Custer’s Last Stand as it is sometimes referred, was fought. George Custer and over 200 of his men were defeated during this battle.

Montana’s history is rich in mining and oil production. At one time, the area surrounding Butte produced nearly half of the copper used in the United States. In recent years, farming and agriculture have been on the rise. Grain is largely grown including wheat, rye, oats, and barley. Raising livestock is also an important part of the state’s economy, especially sheep and cattle. Montana is known for dude ranching, which is popular with tourists and locals.

Hunting and fishing are also popular attractions to the state. Other major attractions include Glacier National Park, the Continental Divide, Little Bighorn, Yellowstone National Park, and more. Glacier Nation Park is home to around 200 lakes, 60 glaciers, and some of the best trout fishing in the United States. Glacier National Park is also where the Continental Divide is located. Historical figures and famous people from Montana include Gary Cooper, Evel Knievel, Mike Mansfield, and others.