Geographical Features
The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States and is considered the dividing point between the Eastern and Western United States and has been referred to as the “mighty” Mississippi over the centuries. Geographically, the Mississippi is the largest and most important river east of the Rocky Mountains. It is an important source of water for Native American tribes and a crucial transportation route for American settlers.
The geographical features of the Mississippi are varied as it has a relatively short course of only 2,202 miles. It has numerous tributaries and distributaries which make it a very unique river, including the Illinois River, Ohio River, Tennessee River, Des Moines River, and more. It is considered a major commercial waterway and provides a connection between the Great Lakes and the Gulf of Mexico.
States East of the Mississippi
The number of states east of the Mississippi varies depending on how one defines “east” of the river. Generally speaking, there are 13 states directly east of the Mississippi River, or states that have portions of their borders directly along the river. These states include Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina.
In addition, some people include the states of Arkansas and Louisiana as part of the “eastern” states, signifying the importance of the Mississippi River. These states have portions of their western borders along the Mississippi River, although they are considered part of the “west” since they are not completely east of the river.
History of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River has a long and storied history. It was first recorded by French explorers in 1673, who named the river “Misinipi” or “great river.” In 1718, French explorer Pierre le Moyne d’Iberville renamed the river “Mississippi.” The river has since become a crucial part of American history, becoming a major transportation and trade route for early settlers during the westward expansion of the United States.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, the river became a part of the industrial revolution as it was a major part of the industrialization of the Midwest. During the Civil War, the Mississippi was a critically important strategic route as well as a point of contention between the Union and the Confederacy. It served a similar role during WW2 and was the site of numerous battles between the US and Axis countries.
Economic Significance of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the most important rivers in the United States and has played a critical role in the economic development of the country. It is an important transportation route for goods and services and provides a connection between the midwestern states and the Gulf of Mexico. It is estimated that the annual economic impact of the river is around $296 billion, making it a major driver of the economy.
The Mississippi is also an important part of the agricultural industry as it is an important water source for farmers and is used to irrigate crops for consumption and for market sale. The river is also used for tourism, fishing and boating activities, drawing millions of tourists to states along its banks each year.
Environmental Concerns
The Mississippi River has been subject to numerous environmental concerns in recent years. In particular, the river is subject to pollution, urban runoff, and agricultural pollution. These issues have caused water contamination and been a source of numerous health risks. This has led to an increased focus on preserving and protecting the river as well as increasing efforts to clean up pollution and reduce runoff.
The Mississippi River is also at risk of flooding, which has caused massive damage to many cities and communities along the river. To address this issue, numerous flood control measures have been taken, including dams, levees, and floodways. In addition, the Construction of the Bonnet Carre Spillway has been used to divert floodwaters away from the river to nearby lakes and wetlands.
Recreation Use
The Mississippi River is a popular destination for recreational activities. There are numerous parks, trails, and other public areas along the river, making it a popular spot for camping, hiking, swimming, and boating. It is also a popular fishing spot, with more than 500 species of fish that live in the river, including bass and catfish.
The river is also popular for sightseeing, with many cruises and tour boats operating along the river. In addition, there are numerous festivals and events that take place along the Mississippi, including Mardi Gras in Louisiana, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Mississippi, and the Minnesota State Fair.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an important and influential part of American history and culture, and its importance spans centuries. The river is essential source of water, transportation, and economic activity for many states, especially those located directly east of it. It is an important resource for recreation activities and environmental preservation, and its history is full of intrigue and adventure. The Mississippi will continue to play a significant role in United States culture for years to come.
