The Mississippi River is a major river in the United States and is well-known for being the largest division between the eastern and western United States. The popular phrase ‘West of the Mississippi’ has a certain aura of romance and fascination for many. But for those who live near the river, it can be difficult to know which side of the Mississippi they are on.
Geography
The Mississippi River starts in Minnesota and meanders 2,500 miles south until it enters the Gulf of Mexico, making it the second-longest river in North America. Not only is the Mississippi River one of the longest in the world, but it is also one of the widest. In some places, the river can be over two miles wide.
Mississippi River and the US Border
The Mississippi River is typically considered the western border of the eastern United States, though some consider the dividing line between east and west to be the western border of Illinois. The Great Lakes, which are found on the northern side of the river, are considered to be part of the east. This means that if you are north of the river, you are considered to be east of the Mississippi River.
What About the South?
The southern states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, are typically considered to be part of the west when it comes to the Mississippi River. This is because these states are located along the river, on the western side of it. In some cases, the river may serve as a physical split between the two regions.
Mississippi River Transportation Route
The Mississippi River is an important transportation route that has been used throughout American history. Early settlers used the river to explore the continent, while merchants and traders used it to move goods back and forth. Today, many industries rely on the Mississippi River to move resources and products.
Mississippi River Basin
The Mississippi River Basin is an area that extends beyond the borders of the U.S. state of Mississippi. It is composed of various tributaries and other rivers, many of which also serve as dividing lines between the east and west. The basin covers over a million square miles, including parts of 31 states and two Canadian provinces.
Natural Resources
The Mississippi River is an important source of natural resources for various industries. Fish and other aquatic life can be found in the river, while its sediment-rich banks are a source of clay, coal, and timber. The waters of the Mississippi are also used to generate hydroelectricity, providing a clean and renewable source of energy.
Conclusions
The Mississippi River is an important geographical and cultural divide that has shaped life in the United States for centuries. Whether you are east or west of the river depends on where you are located relative to it. Regardless of which side of the Mississippi you live on, it is important to remember that both east and west are united by a shared history and culture.
The Human Cost
The Mississippi River has played an important role in shaping American history, but it has also taken its toll on human life. The river has been a site of historical traumas, from mass displacement to the impacts of extractive industries. This has resulted in an ongoing legacy of socioeconomic disparity and environmental injustice.
Recreation and Tourism
The Mississippi River also offers plenty of opportunities for recreation and tourism. Visitors can explore the banks of the river by boat and canoe, as well as go fishing and boating. There are also several national and state parks along the river, offering visitors a chance to take in the beauty of the region.
Environmental Impact
The Mississippi River has been heavily impacted by human activities, from run-off from agricultural and industrial operations to increasing sediment runoff from upstream sources. These activities have resulted in a decrease in water quality, as well as increased levels of pollution and contaminants.
Rejuvenation and Restoration
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on rejuvenating and restoring the Mississippi River. A variety of conservation, restoration, and remediation efforts are underway to bring life and vitality back to the river, from wetlands restoration to riverbank protection.
