The original name of Arkansas comes from the Algonkian-speaking Indians of the Ohio Valley, who referred to them as "the Arkansas." This term translates to "south wind."
Origin of the Name "Arkansas"
The name "Arkansas" is deeply rooted in the history of the indigenous peoples of North America. European explorers first encountered the name through their interactions with Algonkian tribes. The Algonkian-speaking Indians used "Arkansas" to describe a group of people or a region, which literally meant "south wind." This original designation laid the foundation for the future state's name.
Historical Spellings and Evolution
Throughout history, the spelling of "Arkansas" has evolved, reflecting different transcriptions by early European explorers. These variations highlight the journey of the name from its indigenous roots to its modern form.
Here are some notable early spellings of the Indian name:
| Year | Explorer(s) | Spelling |
|---|---|---|
| 1673 | Marquette and Joliet | AKANSEA |
| A few years later | LaSalle | ACANSA |
These early spellings, such as AKANSEA in Marquette and Joliet's Journal of 1673 and ACANSA on LaSalle's map a few years later, demonstrate how the Algonkian term was recorded by different European expeditions. Despite the varied spellings, the core sound and origin of the name remained consistent, eventually settling into the modern spelling of "Arkansas."
