Wisconsin State Nickname

The Badger State

Wisconsin is often referred to as the "Badger State." This nickname has its roots in the early 19th century when lead miners in the region began digging tunnels into hillsides for shelter. These makeshift homes reminded observers of the burrows created by badgers. The term became popularized, and by the 1840s, it was widely associated with Wisconsin residents. The nickname was officially adopted in 1957. While the badger itself may not be native to the state, the term symbolizes the hardworking and tenacious spirit of Wisconsin's early settlers. The Badger State's nickname captures a piece of its historical identity and industrious heritage.

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