On August 1, 1876, Colorado was admitted to the Union as the 38th state. Statehood came exactly one century after the Declaration of Independence, which led to the nickname "The Centennial State." Colorado’s admission followed years of population growth fueled by mining and settlement. The new state brought additional Western representation to Congress. Its rich mineral resources and mountain geography shaped its early economy and politics. Over time, Colorado became a center for energy, tourism, and outdoor recreation.
