Spark Files Blog
Iowa: America's Heartland
April 11, 2013
Where The State Name Indiana Came From
April 11, 2013
As you would assume, Indiana comes from the word 'indian' and literally means 'land of the indians'.
Where The Name State Name 'Kansas' Came From
April 11, 2013
The name of the state of Kansas originally comes from the Kansa people, a native American tribe from the area.
The Origin Of Kentucky's Iroquois Name
April 11, 2013
Kentucky was formally part of a region known as Catawba and the modern state's name was derived from an Iroquois word meaning 'meadow land'.
Louisiana State's Origin: The Land Of Louis
April 11, 2013
As the name suggests, Louisiana was named after the king of France, King Louis XIV. La Salle named the area 'La Louisiane' which meant 'land of Louis'.
Maine: Nobody Knows Where Its Name Originates
April 11, 2013
The origin of the state of Maine's name has no clear explanation. It's also the only state name in the US with one syllable.
State Of Maryland Origin: It Was Literally Mary's Land
April 11, 2013
Charles I had a wife named Henrietta Maria. The state of Maryland was ultimately named after his wife in 1632.
Massachusetts: Or Is It Taxachusetts?
April 11, 2013