Known as the Cheese State, Wisconsin has been a recognized terroritory since the Revolutionary War. It was not brought into the United States as a state until 1848, as the 30th state in the Union. During the Civil War, it was a very important stop on the Underground Railroad leading slaves to freedom. Being in the north, they were easily able to shuttle freed men and women to other places around the country and over the borders.

Wisconsin is famously known for its dairy and cheese production, and many consider the cheddar cheese to be the best anywhere. This is the only state that offers a Master Cheesemaker program, requiring ten years of experience to join, and the program lasts for three years.

The area’s road to statehood was long. It first became a possession of the United States through the Treaty of Paris in 1783. In 1787, it was made part of the new Northwest Territory; then it was included in the Indiana Territory in 1800. By 1815, it was a part of the Illinois Territory. After Illinois became a state in 1818, the current area of Wisconsin was transferred to the Michigan Territory, until it was separated into its own territory in 1836. Twelve years later, it was finally admitted to the Union.

Wisconsin has 72 counties. They are governed by county boards that are headed by a chairperson. The most populous county in the state is Milwaukee County, which is home to almost one million people. Many of the county names come from Native American words or tribes.

The Wisconsin state government runs much the same as any other state government. There are three branches that work to uphold the Constitution and make sure that the people of Wisconsin are getting everything they need and deserve.
The Supreme Court of the state is the highest appellate court having jurisdiction over appeals from lower courts, original decisions, and any regulations for the state. There are seven justices who preside over the courts, and these justices are chosen in statewide elections. They serve ten-year terms, and only one justice can be elected a year. The Chief Justice is elected to a two-year term by the other justices.


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