It has been used historically to describe the Dakota Territory, and is still used for the collective heritage,[2] culture, geography,[3] fauna,[4] sociology,[5] economy,[6][7] and cuisine[8] of the two states.

The region historically involved a complex series of conflicts between the U.S. government and Native American tribes (and among themselves).

Dakota Territory initially included parts of present day Montana, Nebraska and Wyoming.

The fall of 1861 resulted in a poor harvest and was followed by a harsh winter, leading to extreme hardship for the Dakota in the region.

The treaty established the Great Sioux Reservation and "designated the Black Hills as 'unceded Indian Territory' for the exclusive use of native peoples.

Before he left office, President Cleveland signed a bill on February 22, 1889, splitting the Dakota Territory along the modern borders.

The PBS miniseries New Perspectives on the West noted historically important areas within the Dakotas, including the Black Hills, the town of Deadwood, Fort Buford, Standing Rock Reservation and Wounded Knee.

[citation needed] Both of the Dakotas have humid continental climate, with warm to hot summers and cold to even subarctic temperatures in winter.