The History Of Denver Colorado

Denver, the capital city of Colorado, is located east of the Rocky Mountains at the confluence of the Cherry Creek and South Platte River. The city is nicknamed as "The Mile High City," due to its one statute mile (5,280) above the sea level. As the largest city in the region, Denver serves as an industrial, transportation, commercial hub, and a center of high-technology industries.

The Foundation

Denver, CO was founded as a result of the Colorado Gold Rush- a major boom in gold prospecting economic activity. Before then, the city served as an early seasonal encampment for the Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians, traders, and fur trappers. In June 1858, gold attracted prospectors who created the rival towns of Auraria and St. Charles. In November 1858, William Larimer Jr., a U.S. Army General, took over St. Charles and renamed it Denver after the governor of Kansas territory James W. Denver. His aim was to create a major city that would accommodate immigrants. By 1867, Denver had been chosen as a territorial capital.

Settlement and population

After permanent settlement began in 1858, the population of the city grew exponentially. By 1890, it had a population of over 106,000 residents. This made it the 26th largest urban area in the states and hence earned the nickname “Queen City of the Plains.” Following the movement to the suburbs in the 1960s and the energy crisis of the 1970s, the city's growth slowed down. However, urban renewal and the new construction boom, that began in the late 70s to the 90s changed the face of the city and gave it a modern, vibrant look. Today, Denver's population is double of what it was in 1960.

Economic trends over the years

Gold discoveries drew in a range of colorful characters, which earned Denver a rather unsavory reputation. But, by 1880, silver replaced gold as the primary source of wealth and Denver’s growth accelerated. In 1893, silver prices dropped and caused a depression. Nonetheless, the city rebounded to become a lively cosmopolitan center graced by statues, parks, mansions, and landmarks like the Tabor Opera House (built by silver baron Horace Tabor).

Landmarks and Historic Denver

Denver, CO is a home of major landmarks and places of historic interest such as the Confluence Park, Denver union station, and Denver mint. The mint, opened in 1906, is the major producer of US coinage and is the country’s second largest gold depository. The Colorado History Museum that was built in 1977 is a home of a myriad of historical and prehistorical artifacts and documents and is the headquarters of Colorado Historical Society. Furthermore, the Museum of Nature and Science opened in 2003, hosts the Gates Planetarium- one of the most technologically advanced, immersive digital theaters in the world.

The contemporary city

The present-day Denver is a metropolitan area that is linked by virtually continuous built-up suburban corridors. The city boasts major businesses including aviation and aerospace, telecommunications, software, health care, and financial and business services. Due to its rich heritage and historical tourist attraction sites, tourism is its primary economic factor.

Denver city has a fascinating history that has been blended into the modern world making it an excellent place to visit. It carries memories that goes back to more than 150 years old and it’s thus the best place for a vacation with your family.