Undated (KROC AM News) - Happy birthday, Minnesota!  

May 11, marks the birthdate of the state of Minnesota.

It was on May 11,1858 when Minnesota became the 32nd state of the union. At the time, Minnesota’s population was around 150,000. But the land size was big enough then to make it the 3rd largest state, trailing only Texas and California.

The paperwork for statehood began in 1857 and it took almost a full year before the process was finalized due to political squabbling between Democrats and Republicans.

During the constitutional convention, two state constitutions were actually adopted. One was later dropped.

There was also a bitter dispute over where the state capitol should be located. Legislation designating Saint Peter was passed but the bill  disappeared and wasn't found in time to be filed with the federal government so Saint Paul retained the title.

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