What Are People From South Dakota Called?

North America, United States

The demonym for people from South Dakota is:

South Dakotan

Pronunciation:

/ˌsaʊθ dəˈkoʊtən/

South Dakota in United States
Image via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 3.0

About South Dakota

Pierre is the capital of South Dakota and sits on the east bank of the Missouri River in the central part of the state. South Dakota was admitted to the Union on November 2, 1889, as the 40th state. It is the least populous of the state capitals in the United States, and its small-town character reflects the rural life that defines much of the region. The city's economy includes agriculture, tourism, and financial services, and it serves as the center of state government. South Dakota is home to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, one of the country's most famous landmarks, and to the Badlands and the Black Hills, which draw visitors from across the nation. Pierre's river setting, government buildings, and proximity to these natural wonders make it a meaningful gateway to the Northern Plains.

Quick Facts about South Dakota
Population:
920,000 (2024 est.)
Country:
United States
Region:
North America

Recommended Geography Resources

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Etymology of the South Dakota Demonym

'Dakota' derives from a Sioux word meaning 'allies' or 'friends'; 'South' distinguishes it from North Dakota.

Notable People Associated with South Dakota

The area's rich history is reflected in the remarkable people connected to it.

Politics & Leadership

Sitting Bull

Grand River, South Dakota

Hunkpapa Lakota leader who led his people during years of resistance against United States government policies.

Victory at the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Crazy Horse

Bear Butte, South Dakota

Lakota war leader of the Oglala band in the 19th century, known for his bravery in battle.

Leadership at the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Hubert Humphrey

Wallace, South Dakota

38th Vice President of the United States and a prominent leader of the Democratic Party.

Civil rights advocacy and the Great Society

Music & Entertainment

Tom Brokaw

Webster, South Dakota

Journalist and author best known as the anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News for 22 years.

The Greatest Generation
January Jones

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Actress and model best known for her role as Betty Draper in the television series 'Mad Men'.

Mad Men

Business & Innovation

Ernest Lawrence

Canton, South Dakota

Nobel Prize-winning physicist known for his invention of the cyclotron.

Invention of the cyclotron

Sports Legends

Sparky Anderson

Bridgewater, South Dakota

Baseball manager who led both the Cincinnati Reds and the Detroit Tigers to World Series championships.

Hall of Fame baseball manager
Becky Hammon

Rapid City, South Dakota

Professional basketball coach and former player, the first female full-time assistant coach in the NBA.

Pioneering female coach in the NBA

Top Things to Do in South Dakota

Actions

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