Brief History of Kansas Kansas is rich with history. In fact,
Kansas' history predates statehood and even that of the United
States. From the first documented traveler, over 400 years of
trials, tribulations, and triumphs have helped mold Kansas into
the vibrant, prosperous, rich State we know today. In 1540,
Coronado found his way to Kansas as he was exploring the “new
world” in search of gold. Gold he did not find. But, what he did
find was land which he viewed as “the best that I have ever seen
for producing all the products of Spain” (The Capper /MRI Quick-
Fact Book of Kansas, p. 23) Although Coronado is believed to be
the first traveler to Kansas, it is also believed that Native
Americans were the first inhabitants. There were many reasons
why Native American nations came to this land. Much like the
Kansas we know today, they saw great opportunity in moving here.
Buffalo as far as the eye could see roamed the prairies; the
fecund soil was perfect for growing crops; the many rivers and
streams provided en