Colorado's history began in 1803 with the Louisiana Purchase which included the land that is now Colorado. In 1806 Zebulon Pike discovered Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs. Fur trading and trapping began in the early 1800s and helped establish important locations like Bents Fort trading post. The boundaries of Colorado were established in 1850 and gold was discovered in 1859, attracting settlers and leading to the founding of Denver.

1. Colorado History Timeline Ashley 5/05/09 Sanchez

2. 1803 Louisiana Purchase Thomas Jefferson U.S. buys land which is now Colorado

3. 1806 Zebulon Pike discovers Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs.

4. 1811 Ezra Williams comes to Colorado with other men to trap beaver. Half of the group disappeared crossing Continental Divide.

5. 1820 Stephen Long discovers South Platte River. Longs Peak named for him.

6. 1825 Fur trading and trapping era begins.

7. 1832 Bents Fort is built. It was an important trading post.

8. 1850 The boundaries of Colorado are created.

9. 1854 Ute Indians kill 15 people in Fort Pueblo on Christmas Day.

10. 1859 Gold is found in Idaho Springs. First newspaper begins. It is called Rocky Mt. News. First stagecoach with mail comes to Denver.