North Dakota is a U.S. state, the northernmost of the Great Plains states in the Midwestern United States, although during the 19th century it was considered part of the Wild West. The Missouri River flows through the western part of the state, forming Lake Sakakawea behind the Garrison Dam.

Formerly part of Dakota Territory (named after the Dakota tribe of Native Americans), North Dakota became a state in 1889.

The United States Navy vessels USS North Dakota and Flickertail State were named in honor of North Dakota.