National Arkansas Day

A group of people in casual attire, exploring a scenic natural park in Arkansas, with a smiling park ranger guiding them.. — National arkansas day illustration

Hey there! Get ready to dive into the wacky and wonderful world of National Arkansas Day. Whether you're an Arkansan at heart or just curious about this fascinating state, we've got all the juicy details you need to know.

When is Arkansas Day?

It's national arkansas day on the 12th January.

The Internet History of National Arkansas Day

Are you ready for some down-home charm and southern hospitality? National Arkansas Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the Natural State and everything it has to offer. This delightful day has gained a dedicated following online, with 73 mentions discovered during our internet sleuthing. The buzz reached its peak on January 12, 2018, when folks couldn't contain their excitement for all things Arkansas.

So, what exactly makes Arkansas so special? Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of its landscapes, from the tranquil Ozark Mountains to the mystical Hot Springs. Add in the fascinating history, delicious food, and friendly locals, and you've got a recipe for an unforgettable experience.

Nowadays, people celebrate National Arkansas Day by spreading the love for this unique state. It's a day for Arkansans to come together, reminisce about their favorite childhood memories, and showcase the incredible achievements of their beloved state.

A Fun Fact About Arkansas

Did you know that Arkansas is home to the world-renowned Walmart headquarters? That's right, the retail giant that seemingly has everything under the sun has its roots right here in the Natural State. So the next time you're shopping at your local Walmart, give a little nod to Arkansas for being the birthplace of this retail empire!

History behind the term 'Arkansas'

1673

Early European Exploration

The first recorded use of the term 'Arkansas' dates back to 1673 during the early European exploration of North America. French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet ventured down the Mississippi River, encountering a Quapaw tribe settlement near the present-day Arkansas Post. This settlement was referred to as 'Akansa' in their written records, possibly derived from the Algonquian Native American language.

1819

Formation of Arkansas Territory

In 1819, the Arkansas Territory was established by the United States government, encompassing the region that would later become the state of Arkansas. The name 'Arkansas' was officially adopted to honor the Native American tribes that inhabited the area. It is believed to have been an anglicized version of the French pronunciation 'Arcansas,' derived from the original 'Akansa' of the Quapaw tribe.

1836

Statehood and the Arkansas State Constitution

Arkansas achieved statehood on June 15, 1836. During the process of drafting the state constitution, there was a debate over the correct pronunciation of the state's name. Some argued for the traditional French pronunciation 'Arcansas,' while others preferred the anglicized pronunciation 'Arkansas.' Ultimately, the anglicized pronunciation prevailed, and it has been the accepted pronunciation ever since.

1881

Official State Spelling

To avoid confusion and establish consistency, the Arkansas General Assembly passed Act 311 in 1881, officially mandating the spelling of the state's name as 'Arkansas' in all legislative acts and documents. This standardization further solidified the pronunciation and spelling of the term, maintaining the use of the anglicized version over the French-rooted 'Arcansas.'

1987

Official State Pronunciation

In an effort to further clarify the proper pronunciation of 'Arkansas,' the state legislature passed a resolution on April 6, 1987, officially declaring and recognizing the pronunciation as 'ar-kan-saw.' This resolution emphasized the longstanding use of the anglicized pronunciation and sought to avoid any confusion or misinterpretation regarding the state's name.