The land that is now the state of Montana was a part of the Louisiana Purchase before becoming a territory of the United States. After becoming a part of the United States, Montana served as the stage of the Battle of Little Big Horn, where General Custer was defeated by the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes. For the most part, however, the state has a primarily uneventful and unremarkable history.
The economy of Montana is often the most interesting area of study for those looking back at the history of the state. On the surface, the seemingly never ending fields of wheat offer the appearance that the staple of the economy must be agriculture. While it is true that a large portion of the revenue generated in Montana is from agriculture, one needs to look a little deeper than just the state's surface to find where the true economy was once based.
Butte, Montana was at one time supplying over half of the copper being used within the entire United States. Zinc, silver, oil and coal were also huge cash generating commodities at one time in Montana.
Today, agriculture and tourism have truly taken the economic lead. Wheat, flax, rye, oats and barley are among the leading exports.
In terms of tourism, Montana attracts many people each year to visit attractions such as the Continental Divide, Glacier National Park, the site of Custer's last stand, among others.
Montana is a beautiful state to visit, and there are many attractions to see in the beautiful state.