The first white men to enter Idaho was believed to have been Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark who were on on expedition in 1805 to explore a new route to the Pacific Ocean. From 1808-1840, trappers and fur traders sought Idaho for its vast supply of beaver furs. Idaho's first permanent settlement was established on April 14, 1860, shen a group of people founded the town of Franklin in southeast Idaho. The same year, gold was discovered on Orofino Creek, which ushered in a frenzied rush of prospectors and miners to the state. The Territory of Idaho was established in March of 1863 with the first territorial capitol established in Lewiston. In 1864 the capitol was moved to its present location in Boise. Idaho became the nation's 43rd state when President Harrison signed the Idaho Admission Act on July 3, 1890.

Life in Idaho is something to be treasured. Scenic mountains, crystal clear lakes and streams, beautiful valleys and fresh air coupled with a small population makes Idaho one of the most beautiful and uncrowded states to live in. Residents value the serenity of its everyday life. Idaho's crime rate is the second lowest in the West, and the state has a low cost of living. This quality of life has earned Boise, the state's capital, the of the 17th best U.S. city to live in.