Introduction South Dakota is an important state in the United States owing to its historical roots that dates to the time of Napoleon Bonaparte. In addition, South Dakota supports activities that are important in the economy of the United States, such as agriculture. The aim of this research paper is to explore the history of South Dakota, its geographical features and location, important industries located in the state, and the education sector as well. Accordingly, the paper will address the various generations that have occupied the state, and how the United States acquired it from Napoleon Bonaparte. By exploring the geography of South Dakota, the neighbouring states will be provided, and the various geographical features within the state. The different industries in South Dakota how they affect the economy of the state is another area that the research paper will attempt to address. Finally, this research paper shall examine the status of the education sector in South Dakota. History of South Dakota The first inhabitants of the present day South Dakota were the Paleolithic hunter-gathers at about 500 BC. The Mound Builders, a group of semi-nomadic people, occupied the region from 500 AD to 800 AD. The indigenous inhabitants began contacts with the Europeans in 1743, after the Laverendrye brothers (Hasselstrom 43) had explored the area. In early 19 th century, the Sioux already replaced the Arikara, who had occupied this region since the Sioux (Schell 4). The Louisiana territory, hitherto owned by Napoleon Bonaparte, became a part of the United States when the latter bought it. The establishment of a trading post for fur took place in 1817 in what is today Fort Pierre. The U. S. Army later on purchased the fort in 1855; one year later abandoned it in favor of another fort located in the south, Fort Randall. By now, many American families were settling in South Dakota. The singing of the 1858 treaty by Yankton Sioux resulted in the United States acquiring a large portion of what is today South Dakota. The establishment of the Dakota Territory by the U. S. government occurred in 1861, and this led to increased settlement of Americans in this territory. Due to the burgeoning population in the region, it became necessary to divide in half the Dakota Territory. Accordingly, in February 1889, the ratification of the Enabling Act of 1899 occurred. This bill sought the granting of statehood to both South and North Dakota. Several climatic and economic conditions in the 1930s affected South Dakota, and a coinciding of these events with the Great Depression worsened the situation. As a result, from 1930 to 1940, the population in this territory reduced by 7 %. However, by the start of the Second World War, the state was again enjoying economic stability. Over the last few decades, the economy of South Dakota has diversified, from one dependent mainly on agriculture. Today, the service industry and tourism are the leading sectors of the South Dakota economy. Geography of south Dakota Geographically, South Dakota occupies the north-central region of the United States. According to the U. S. Census Bureau, South Dakota occupies the Midwest part of the country (7). This i