Introduction
The United States of America spans the second widest land area in the world, much of which is west of the historic Mississippi River. The significance and influence of this long, winding waterway on American history, culture, transportation, development, and the economy is immense, so much so it is college-level material. For that reason, it must be said the Mississippi River is a quizlet capable of testing not only one’s knowledge of geography, but that of history and culture as well.
Overview
Since its earliest times, the Mississippi served as a boundary between states–the Mason Dixon Line to the east, and the Ohio River to the west. This was often the determining factor between slavery and freedom, commerce and tariffs, and it played a major logistical part in the US Civil War. It’s no surprise the river itself commanded so much power.
The states that are directly west of the Mississippi are Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. These seven states directly border the river, with some sections of their boundaries being with the river itself. The remaining western territories, Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota, do not border the Mississippi, but can be considered as within its watershed.
The significance of being west of the Mississippi is twofold. As mentioned previously, it can be seen as both a line that divides the states culturally and geographically, as well as a line of freedom, expansion, and progress. As a result, it is a major defining line of the United States.
History
Land west of the Mississippi was crucial to the expansion of the US in the late 19th century. President Thomas Jefferson purchased the Louisiana Territory from France, which effectively doubled the size of the United States. This was a major turning point for the country, and cemented the river as a major element of US geography, history, and geography.
Moreover, the discovery of new resources on the lands west of the Mississippi proved an invaluable asset that gave the US an economic advantage. The discovery of gold in Colorado, oil in Texas, and topographical and geological formations in Arizona, created a surge of opportunity for American settlers moving westwards.
This ambitious expansion by the US was resisted by indigenous tribes, and the battles fought with them were some of the most hard-fought times of the young nation. The result was a strong and determined country, with many representatives of different backgrounds, able to stand up to difficult challenges.
American Landscape
Today, the states west of the Mississippi are integral parts of the United States economy and landscape. Oklahoma, another state that was made possible in part by the Louisiana purchase, is a major crop producer, providing around a fifth of the nation’s wheat and corn. It is also the beginnings of the famous American cowboys and cattle ranches that are still around today. Other locations such as the Rocky Mountain range in Colorado, and Arizona’s Grand Canyon have become iconic tourist destinations in the US, as well as the world.
More recent states such as Arizona and New Mexico have become major centers of commerce and industry, in addition to being major benefactors of environmental concerns. New Mexico and Arizona’s desert terrain has made them major hubs for solar power and wind energy, which are becoming increasingly vital sources of renewable energy.
Environmental Impact
The impact of the Mississippi on the environment has been significant, as any change in watersheds can lead to changes in the environment. As mentioned earlier, the states west of the river have become major benefactors of renewable energy. However, with this has come a number of consequences and issues. Major local and regional droughts have occurred, as well as the depletion of major rivers, such as the Colorado River. These processes have had large impacts on the ecology of the areas, as it has led to increased desertification, as well as decreased biodiversity.
As a result, it is important to manage the water resources in the area carefully, as it is vital for not only powering and sustaining industry, but for also sustaining life in the region.
Conclusion
Overall, the states west of the Mississippi have become major players in the US economy, culture, and landscape. It is evident that the significance of this long expanse of land and water has vast implications for American history, and future. As a result, the importance of understanding the US states west of the Mississippi should not be underestimated.
