The state gets its name from the Ute, meaning “people of the mountains,” an Indian tribe who lived there before the pioneers arrived. The state known as Utah began when Brigham Young led a group of Mormon pilgrims seeking freedom from religious persecution into the Great Salt Lake Valley, where they established a settlement in 1847. Mormons, members of the Church of Latter-Day Saints, make up a large percentage of the population of Utah. Utah became the 45th state of the Union in 1896. The golden spike completing the first transcontinental railroad line was driven at Promontory, Utah, in 1869, leading to a further influx of settlers. Utah is well-known for its snow-covered mountains and beautifully colored canyons. The wind and rain have formed rocks into many arches and natural bridges. The Great Salt Lake is the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi River; its waters are saltier than ocean water. The state's forests, mountains, lakes, and rivers are excellent for boating, fishing, hunting, sightseeing, skiing and swimming. One of Utah's most interesting places to visit is Mormon Temple Square in Salt Lake City. 

GOVERNMENT
Capital: Salt Lake City
Governor: Michael O. Leavitt, R (to Jan. 2005)
Senators: Robert F. Bennett, R (to Jan. 2005); Orrin G. Hatch, R (to Jan. 2007)
House of Representatives: 3 districts | Search by zip code

ECONOMY
Total Gross State Product 1999 (millions of dollars): 62,641; National rank: 35; Percent change since 1990: 100%; National Rank based on Growth Rate: 4 (Including Washington, DC)
Per Capita Personal Income 2001: $24,033; National Rank: 47 (79% of the national average)
State Exports 1999 (millions of dollars): 3,134; National Rank: 33
Agriculture: Cattle, dairy products, hay, turkeys.
Industry: Machinery, aerospace, mining, food processing, electric equipment, tourism.