What Are People From Minnesota Called?

North America, United States

The demonym for people from Minnesota is:

Minnesotan

Pronunciation:

/ˌmɪnɪˈsoʊtən/

Ends in -an — see how this suffix works

MNfiddles
Image via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY 2.5

About Minnesota

Saint Paul is the capital of Minnesota and sits on the Mississippi River, with Minneapolis just across the river to the west. Minnesota was admitted to the Union on May 11, 1858, as the 32nd state. The city was an important river port in the 19th century and has grown into a center of government, healthcare, and business. The state is famous as the 'Land of 10,000 Lakes,' a nickname that reflects its many waterways and outdoor recreation. Saint Paul's economy includes medical devices, retail, and agriculture, and the city's historic architecture, including the Minnesota State Capitol, shows its long civic history. The Mississippi River bluffs and riverside parks give residents and visitors a place to enjoy the seasons, while the city's cultural institutions and neighborhoods reflect the diverse character of the Twin Cities region.

Quick Facts about Minnesota
Population:
5,750,000 (2024 est.)
Country:
United States
Region:
North America

Recommended Geography Resources

Want to explore where Minnesotans live? Here's the atlas that does it best:

National Geographic Atlas of the World

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Etymology of the Minnesota Demonym

The name Minnesota comes from the Dakota Sioux word Mnisota, meaning "cloudy water" or "milky water." The term combines mni ("water") and sota ("cloudy," "milky," or "sky-tinted"). Dakota people used this name for the Minnesota River, whose waters often appear cloudy due to sediment.

Early European explorers, including French fur traders, adopted the Dakota name, recording it as Minesota, Minisota, and eventually Minnesota. The spelling stabilized in the mid-19th century as the territory was organized.

Minnesota became the 32nd state on May 11, 1858. The name reflects the region's indigenous heritage and the importance of its rivers and lakes. The demonym Minnesotan is formed by adding the standard English suffix -an to the state name, following the pattern of other U.S. state demonyms.

Notable People Associated with Minnesota

This place has been connected to many influential figures throughout history.

Music & Entertainment

Prince

Minneapolis, Minnesota

A multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and producer known for his eclectic work and flamboyant stage presence.

Purple RainSeven-time Grammy Winner
Bob Dylan

Duluth, Minnesota

A singer-songwriter and Nobel laureate who has been a major figure in popular culture for more than 60 years.

Nobel Prize in LiteratureLike a Rolling Stone
Judy Garland

Grand Rapids, Minnesota

An actress and singer best known for her role as Dorothy Gale in 'The Wizard of Oz.'

The Wizard of OzOver the Rainbow
Winona Ryder

Winona, Minnesota

An actress known for her roles in 'Beetlejuice,' 'Edward Scissorhands,' and 'Stranger Things.'

BeetlejuiceStranger Things
Chris Pratt

Virginia, Minnesota

An actor known for his roles in 'Parks and Recreation,' 'Guardians of the Galaxy,' and 'Jurassic World.'

Guardians of the GalaxyJurassic World

Literature & Arts

F. Scott Fitzgerald

St. Paul, Minnesota

A novelist and short story writer whose works illustrate the Jazz Age, most notably 'The Great Gatsby.'

The Great GatsbyThis Side of Paradise
Charles Schulz

Minneapolis, Minnesota

The cartoonist who created the comic strip 'Peanuts,' featuring Charlie Brown and Snoopy.

Creator of Peanuts

Sports Legends

Lindsey Vonn

St. Paul, Minnesota

A world-class alpine ski racer who won four World Cup overall championships and an Olympic gold medal.

Olympic Gold MedalistWorld Cup Champion

Top Things to Do in Minnesota

Actions

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