The History of Denver, Colorado



Denver, Colorado, is a city steeped in history. Located in the Rocky Mountains, Denver was founded in 1858 as a mining town, and quickly grew to become a bustling hub of commerce and culture. Today, Denver is the largest city in Colorado and the 19th largest city in the United States.

Denver was founded in 1858 by gold prospectors during the famous Colorado Gold Rush. The city was originally called Montana City, but was renamed Denver in honor of James W. Denver, the Governor of the Kansas Territory. The city was officially incorporated in 1861, and quickly grew as people flocked to Denver to seek their fortune in the gold mines.

Denver's growth continued through the 1860s and 1870s, when the city became a major supply center for miners and ranchers. It was during this period that Denver's iconic Union Station was built, as well as the Denver Pacific Railway. The city's growth also attracted many immigrants, who brought with them their own cultures and traditions.

Denver's population exploded in the 1880s, when it became the capital of the Colorado Territory. This period of growth was marked by the construction of many of Denver's iconic buildings, such as the Denver Mint, the Brown Palace Hotel, and the Denver Public Library.

Denver continued to grow throughout the 20th century, becoming a major hub for transportation, industry, and culture. The city's population increased dramatically during the 1950s and 1960s, when many African Americans moved to Denver from the South. This period of growth was marked by the construction of many of Denver's iconic skyscrapers, such as the Wells Fargo Center and the Republic Plaza.

Today, Denver is a vibrant city with a rich history. The city is home to a diverse population, with people from all walks of life living in harmony. Denver is also home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. Denver is also a major hub for business, with many Fortune 500 companies having their headquarters in the city. Denver is also home to some of the nation's best universities, such as the University of Colorado Boulder, the University of Denver, and the Colorado School of Mines.

No matter what your interests, Denver has something for everyone. From its rich history to its vibrant culture, Denver is a city that has something for everyone.