Region of South Dakota - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Region of South Dakota," is a classic example of a geographical knowledge question often found in crossword puzzles. It directs us to a specific, well-known area within a U.S. state. These types of clues are generally straightforward, relying on your familiarity with American landmarks and geography rather than wordplay.

Clue Analysis

The clue is direct and unambiguous. It asks for the name of a "region" located in "South Dakota." This immediately tells us a few things:

• The answer is a proper noun.
• It's a geographical location.
• It's likely a famous place, such as a national park, a mountain range, or a distinct geological area.

The key is to access your mental map of South Dakota. What comes to mind? Mount Rushmore? The Black Hills? This clue points to another iconic landscape in the state.

Thinking Approaches

When faced with a clue like this, a good strategy is to brainstorm associated terms.

1. List South Dakota Landmarks: Start by listing everything you know about South Dakota: Mount Rushmore, the Black Hills, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Sioux Falls.
2. Check the Grid: Look at the length of the answer slot and any crossing letters you've already filled in. If the answer is eight letters long, "Black Hills" (9 letters) and "Mount Rushmore" (13 letters) are out.
3. Consider National Parks: National Parks are extremely common crossword fill. What National Parks are in South Dakota? There are two: Wind Cave National Park and another one famous for its rugged, eroded terrain.
4. Use Word Association: The name of this region describes its difficult terrain. The Lakota people called it mako sica, or "land bad." This is a direct clue to the English name.

If you know the name, it will likely click immediately. If not, these steps, combined with crossing letters, should guide you to the correct answer.

Background Context

The answer refers to the Badlands National Park, a stunning and protected area in southwestern South Dakota. The park is characterized by its dramatic landscape of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires blended with the largest undisturbed mixed-grass prairie in the United States.

The name "Badlands" is a translation from the native Lakota language. The terrain was difficult to travel through, with extreme temperatures and a lack of water, making it "bad land." This unique and evocative name has made it a memorable landmark and a favorite for crossword constructors.

Conclusion

"Region of South Dakota" is a solid, accessible clue that rewards general knowledge of U.S. geography. The answer, BADLANDS, is a familiar name that is both descriptive and distinctive, making it a perfect fit for a crossword puzzle. Once you connect South Dakota with its famous national parks, this clue becomes quite solvable.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This area is known for its dramatic, eroded landscape and rich fossil beds.
2. Hint 2: It is a U.S. National Park.
3. Hint 3: The name suggests a difficult or inhospitable terrain.
4. Hint 4: It shares its name with a 1973 Terrence Malick film starring Martin Sheen and Sissy Spacek.