26 May - Montana was organized as a territory of the United States in 1864

 

 

Montana was organized as a territory of the United States on May 26, 1864.

Before Montana became a state, it existed as the Montana Territory, which was established by an act of the U.S. Congress. The Montana Territory encompassed a larger area than the present-day state of Montana, including parts of present-day Idaho and Wyoming. The territory's capital was initially located in Bannack, then moved to Virginia City, and finally settled in Helena.

During its territorial period, Montana experienced significant growth and development due to the discovery of gold, which attracted a large number of settlers. The Montana Territory played a role in the mining industry and the expansion of the western frontier.

On November 8, 1889, Montana was admitted to the Union as the 41st state. Since then, it has functioned as a full-fledged state within the United States with its own state government and representation in Congress.