The Hawkeye State

A History of Iowa

By: Daniel Hardy

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

A Sweeping History of the Great State of Iowa

From ancient burial mounds along the Mississippi to towering wind turbines across the prairie, Iowa's story is one of constant transformation and enduring resilience. In this sweeping narrative, Daniel Hardy traces the remarkable journey of the Hawkeye State from its earliest Native American inhabitants through its emergence as America's agricultural heartland and into its modern role as a leader in renewable energy and presidential politics.

Hardy masterfully weaves together the grand sweep of history with intimate human stories—from the courage of Underground Railroad conductors to the desperation of farmers during the 1980s crisis, from the determination of pioneer families breaking prairie sod to the innovation of modern entrepreneurs building wind farms where corn once grew. This is the story of how Iowa became the unlikely kingmaker in American presidential politics, transformed itself from an agricultural economy into a diversified powerhouse, and maintained its distinctive character while navigating the challenges of the 21st century.

Drawing on extensive research and vivid storytelling, The Hawkeye State reveals how this seemingly quiet corner of the Midwest became central to America's story. Hardy shows us an Iowa that defies easy stereotypes—a state of pragmatic dreamers who built thriving communities on the prairie and continues to reinvent itself while staying true to its deepest values of hard work, fairness, and mutual support.