Ah, the ’80s… Nothing quite compared to E.T., Michael Jackson, and that iconic picture of E.T. with Michael Jackson, did it? If you grew up in and/or lived through the ’80s, you are sure to have several memories of this colorful era, including these 8 things you’ll remember about South Dakota:

1. 1980: The closure of several Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad lines.
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During the 20th century, the railroad both rose and fell significantly, with the once thriving Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad closing many of its South Dakota lines in 1980, leaving many without jobs.
2. 1980: The U.S. government reimburses the Sioux Indians for $122 million, which was payment for seizing their land in 1877.
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3. 1981: Citibank moves its credit card operations to Sioux Falls.
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The move from New York to South Dakota proved to be a game changer for the Mount Rushmore State, as it created hundreds of new jobs in the financial industry.
4. 1985: One of the biggest wildfires in state history rips across South Dakota.
Flickr/BLMIdaho
The infamous Flint Hill Fire destroyed more than 21,746 acres near Edgemont.

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5. 1987: A devastating fire destroys an entire city block in Deadwood.
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The fire took down several historic buildings, including the 100-year-old Syndicate Building.
6. 1988: A severe drought causes major dust storms which closes down schools, causes a lack of feed for livestock, and crop failures.
Flickr/USDA NRCS South Dakota
7. 1988: A 16,000-acre wildfire ravishes the Black Hills.
Flickr/Robert Couse-Baker
While not as big as Flint Hill, the Galena fire still burned a whopping 17,976 acres.
8. 1989: South Dakota celebrates its Centennial.
Flickr/Thomas Hawk
Since a lot of these memories have been sad, let us end on a happier note, like the greatest state in America's 100th birthday!

Rediscover more history by clicking We Will Never Forget These 10 Horrific Winter Storms That Have Gone Down In South Dakota History.

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