How many states are located west of the Mississippi River? A total of seventeen states lie along the banks of the longest river in the United States, spanning more than 2,350 miles. Nine of these states are located west of the Mississippi, while the remainder are situated east of the river. On the west side of the Mississippi you will find the states of Arkansas, Iowa, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Kansas, Nebraska, and North Dakota. These states vastly differ in terrain, population, and geography, each of them having unique characteristics.
History
The Mississippi River has played a vital role in the history of the United States since the establishment of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. French settlers from the Louisiana territory were among the first to explore and settle the land west of the river. Later it saw the westward expansion of the new American nation, with many trails, forts, and cities built near the banks of the river. During the westward expansion, many of the states west of the Mississippi were forged in blood and included in the Union.
Geographical Features
The nine states west of the Mississippi River feature a variety of natural features such as mountains, forests, rolling hills, and wetlands. They also feature numerous rivers, lakes, and streams. Some of the major rivers that run through the states include the Arkansas River, Kansas River, Missouri River, and the Mississippi River itself. The states also contain a variety of wildlife, including elk, bobcats, and black bear.
Economic Opportunities
Each of the nine states west of the Mississippi River contains a variety of industries and economic opportunities. Agriculture is a major industry in the region, with many of the states producing wheat, corn, livestock, and other farm products. Mineral mining and forestry are also prevalent in the region, as well as manufacturing and technology. The region also contains several ports on the Mississippi River, making it an ideal location for shipping and transportation.
Demographics
The states west of the Mississippi contain a wide diversity of people, cultures, and religions. Each state has its own unique demographics. Arkansas, for example, has a largely rural population and is the most economically depressed state in the region. Other states such as North Dakota are more urban and feature larger cities such as Fargo and Bismarck. Kansas, Nebraska, and the Dakotas contain numerous Native American reservations, and several cities throughout the region contain large numbers of immigrants from all over the world.
Geopolitics
Geopolitics in the region of states west of the Mississippi River is largely influenced by the presence of the river itself. The states have been heavily linked with each other economically, with the river forming convenient pathways for the transportation of goods and resources. Politics in the region are also largely determined by the interests of the state capitals, with cities such as Des Moines and Little Rock playing major roles in the region’s politics.
Environmental Impact
The states west of the Mississippi River have also been affected by environmental issues, as the river’s water quality has been steadily declining over the years. There is also a major problem with soil degradation in some areas, with many land areas being rendered unusable for agriculture due to poor soil health. The region also contains numerous Superfund sites, where toxic waste and other hazardous materials have been buried, making it unsafe for humans and wildlife.
Cultural Influence
The cultures of the nine states west of the Mississippi River have been heavily influenced by the presence of the river itself. Music, literature, art, and other forms of culture have been heavily influenced by the river’s aesthetic and by the stories of early settlers and explorers. The states are also home to numerous influential artists and musicians, including the likes of Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, who were both born in the area.
Recreation
The states west of the Mississippi possess numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation such as camping, hiking, and canoeing. Many of the states feature vast areas of public lands and wildlife refuges, offering a safe haven for wildlife. The region is also home to several national parks, including Glacier National Park in Montana, Badlands National Park in South Dakota, and Buffalo National River in Arkansas.
Industrialization
The states west of the Mississippi have seen a surge in industrialization over the past few decades. The region is home to several large industrial cities such as St. Louis and Kansas City, which are now hubs for industrial production, logistics, and commerce. The region is also home to various oil and gas refineries, chemical plants, and other energy-production facilities. As the region has become increasingly industrialized, its economic landscape has also changed, with wages and employment rising in some of the area’s larger cities.
Tourism
Tourism is another major sector of the economy in the states west of the Mississippi. Tourists flock to the area to experience the unique cultures and geography in the region. Many cities, such as St. Louis, host a variety of events and attractions throughout the year. Other attractions include historic sites such as the USS Cairo River Museum in Mississippi, and natural wonders such as the Missouri River Valley in North Dakota. The area is also home to numerous national parks and recreational areas, including the Great Plains National Park in Nebraska.
