Lincoln, Nebraska, Was Named in a Reverse-Psychology Move

In 1855, the city of Omaha was designated the capital of the Nebraska Territory. But then the territory became a state in 1867. That was just the opportunity that citizens needed to name a new capital city, since the movers and shakers of Omaha were known to be corrupt, often getting their way by bullying and intimidation. A bill was proposed to select a new capital, but those who were opposed to moving the capital out of Omaha added several poison pill amendments. One of them was that whichever city was named the state capital would be renamed Lincoln. Omaha proponents knew that would enrage citizens in the South Platte region, who tended to side with the Confederacy in the recent war.

The scheme did not work. Neither the name nor the other amendments kept legislators from voting to move the capital, and the tiny village of Lancaster, population 30, was renamed Lincoln. 

This story came from a list at Mental Floss that looks at the history of seven patriotically-named towns. There, you'll learn how Independence, Liberty, Libertyville, Freedom, Justice, and Flagstaff got their names. 

(Image credit: Steve Shook)