Background Information
The Mississippi River is one of the largest rivers in the United States. Spanning over 2,320 miles long, it runs through a total of 10 states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The Mississippi River has been a crucial resource for navigation, transportation, and industry for many years, but there have been times of drought and flooding due to heavy rains throughout history. While the river provides a precious resource for many people, it is also a geographical feature that divides the United States into two separate regions, the East and West. This division has impacted the number of states east of the Mississippi River, with some states crossing the river and others remaining west of it.
Total Number of States
When it comes to the total number of states in the United States, there are currently 50 states, each of which has its own unique landscape, culture, and history. Of these 50 states, there are exactly 21 states that lie east of the Mississippi River. This includes the six New England states of Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, as well as the mid-Atlantic states of New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. The remaining states east of the Mississippi River consist of West Virginia, Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
Geographical Features
The geographical features of the states east of the Mississippi River vary greatly depending on the area. Along the New England and mid-Atlantic coasts, the states feature densely populated cities and natural bodies of water such as the Atlantic Ocean, Long Island Sound, Chesapeake Bay, and Delaware Bay. The states of Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida lie along the southeastern coast, with their own unique features such as the Appalachian Mountains and coastal wetlands. Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana are all located in the southern portion of the United States, and are home to a wide variety of cultures, with the latter being the most diverse state in terms of population.
Economy of East Coast States
The economy of states east of the Mississippi River is based primarily on heavy industry, manufacturing, and agriculture. Vermont is the top producer of maple syrup in the United States, while Maine is the largest producer of blueberries. New York City is the largest city in the United States, and is a major financial center. Pennsylvania is a leading producer of high-grade coal, and is also home to the city of Pittsburgh, which is also a major manufacturing hub. The Carolinas are major producers of agricultural products such as tobacco and cotton, as well as a major producer of chemicals and electronics. Virginia is a major producer of coal and timber, while Georgia is a leading producer of peaches and peanuts.
Expert’s Perspective
According to Jennifer Wexton, a professor in the geography department of University of Virginia, the states east of the Mississippi River are of great importance to the United States both in terms of economic and cultural diversity. She believes that the states east of the Mississippi River contribute significantly to the nation’s GDP and labor force, providing access to large markets and export opportunities for businesses. Furthermore, these states are also home to many different cultures and lifestyles, which in turn makes them a major tourist destination.
Analysis and Insights
When looking at the total number of states east of the Mississippi River, it is clear that this region plays an important role in the United States. From a geographical perspective, this region is home to coastlines, mountainous regions, and wetlands which provide vital resources for many people. Economically, the states east of the Mississippi River are key contributors to the nation’s GDP and labor force, while also providing access to large markets and export opportunities. Culturally, these states offer an abundance of different lifestyles and cultures, providing insight and opportunities for tourists to explore and enjoy.
Exports and Industries
States east of the Mississippi River are major exporters of goods, commodities, and services, particularly in the manufacturing, agriculture, and energy sectors. For example, the state of New York is home to the world-renowned New York Stock Exchange, while the state of Pennsylvania is a major producer of coal. The states of the Carolinas are major producers of agricultural goods such as tobacco and cotton, while Virginia is a major producer of timber. Louisiana is a major producer of crude oil, while Mississippi is a major producer of cotton and other agricultural products.
Education and Tourism
Education and tourism are also major industries in the states east of the Mississippi River. In terms of education, the region is home to some of the top universities in the United States, including the University of Virginia, Harvard University, Princeton University, and Yale University. The region is also home to some of the most well-known cities in the United States, such as New York City and Washington D.C., which are two of the top tourist destinations in the country. These cities are home to numerous cultural events and attractions, such as the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and the White House.
Regional Distinctions
The states east of the Mississippi River are distinct in their cultural character and geographical features. From the dense populations of the coast to the mountainous regions of Appalachia and the Deep South, each area provides its own unique landscapes, cultures, and experiences. The region is steeped in history and provides insight into the cultural, economic, and political development of the United States. This is an area of contrast and diversity, with each state offering something unique for visitors to discover and explore.
Impact of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River has been a major factor in the development of the states east of it. The river provides a resource for navigation and transportation, while also creating a geographical division between the east and west of the United States. Its economic role in the region has been critical, as evidenced by the major cities and industries that have developed along its banks. By providing access to large markets and resources for businesses, the Mississippi River has greatly contributed to the prosperity of the states east of it.
Cultural Influences
The cultural influences of the states east of the Mississippi River have had a major impact on the nation as a whole. From the English speaking populations of the northern states to the cultures of the Deep South, every state has its own unique customs and traditions. This cultural diversity is reflected in the music, literature, art, language, cuisine, and customs of the region, providing a rich and varied experience for visitors and locals alike.
Conclusion
The states east of the Mississippi River play an important role in the nation’s economy and cultural character. The number of states east of the Mississippi River is 21, with the majority of them being located along the eastern coast of the United States. The geographical features, economic roles, and cultural influences all contribute to making this region a distinct and important part of the nation.
