CLASSIC: What does "Idaho" actually mean?

Ridiculous History

iHeartPodcasts

History, Society & Culture

4.3 • 4.4K Ratings

🗓️ 14 November 2025

⏱️ 25 minutes

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Summary

Idaho was the 43rd state admitted to the Union, and today it's well-known for potatoes, mining, and stunning forests -- but, even in the modern day, Idaho is home to a surprising mystery: What does its name actually mean? Join the guys as they explore the ridiculous origin story of Idaho's name in this week's Classic episode.

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Transcript

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0:00.0	Fellow ridiculous historians, we are returning to you with a classic episode.
0:05.1	This one goes out to all our friends in Idaho.
0:09.2	Yeah, in an Idaho state of mind.
0:11.2	Or just in the state, the 43rd state.
0:13.4	Yes, yes.
0:14.2	In fact, it is the 43rd state.
0:16.3	And I got a check, guys.
0:19.4	We know each other pretty well at this point.
0:21.4	Have any of us been to Idaho?
0:23.5	Not that I can recall.
0:25.1	I have driven through it.
0:26.4	And I was I was going from Seattle to Denver when I did that trip years ago, which involved I went through Montana and stuff.
0:33.1	And I will tell you right now, I had zero expectations.
0:35.6	I was leaving Spokane.
0:37.0	Spokane's gorgeous place.
0:38.0	I had no expectations of Idaho whatsoever.
0:40.7	At least the northern part.
0:42.0	I didn't go through the heart of it.
0:43.5	Beautiful.
0:44.3	Idao is more west, right?
0:46.2	It's just like, it's right.
0:48.0	So the smokestack is right between Washington and Montana.
	...

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