Physical Characteristics
The Mississippi River is one of the most prominent rivers in the United States. It is the second longest river in the United States stretching from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. The Mississippi River has an average depth of approximately 50 feet although some areas may be deeper. The width of the Mississippi can vary from one to five miles, due to its importance to transportation, engineering has been used to control the river with flood protection, navigation channels, and dams.
States with the Mississippi River as a Border
At least 10 states in the United States have the Mississippi River as a border. The states include Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee and Wisconsin. Of these states, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee are located to the south of the river while the remaining states are north of the river. The states can be divided into two groups based on their location along the Mississippi River. The states along the south side of the river are part of the Old South while the states along the north side of the river are part of the Midwest.
Economic Impact of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is an important source of economic activity for the states with the river as a border. The Mississippi River provides navigation, irrigates crops and generates hydroelectric power. It is estimated that the total economic impact of the Mississippi River is about $300 billion annually, which is an impressive figure for a river of this size. Furthermore, the Mississippi River is an important source of employment for the states along its banks, with an estimated 400,000 people employed in industries related to the river. The industries related to the Mississippi River include cargo shipping, fishing, and tourism.
Environmental Impact of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is not just an economic resource, but a vital environmental resource as well. The health of the Mississippi River is an essential part of the overall health of the environment in all of the states that share its banks. Pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial waste are serious concerns for the Mississippi River. These pollutants can cause the depletion of aquatic life, algal blooms, and an overall decrease in water quality. In order to protect the river, organizations such as the Mississippi River Commission are working to combat the pollution in the Mississippi River and to improve the health of the river.
Misconceptions about the Mississippi River
There are many misconceptions about the Mississippi River, such as that it is not the longest river in the United States. However, the Missouri River, which is a tributary of the Mississippi River, is actually the longest river in the United States at 2,540 miles long. Another common misconception is that the Mississippi River is full of dangerous rapids. However, the Mississippi River is a very slow river and most of the rapids have been tamed by engineering projects.
The Role of the Mississippi River in U.S. History
The Mississippi River has played an important role in U.S. History. During the course of U.S. History, several wars have been fought along its banks. In the War of 1812, the Battle of New Orleans famously took place on the Mississippi River. Furthermore, the Mississippi River was an important part of the Underground Railroad, with escaped slaves taking refuge on the banks of the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River was also a vital transportation route for goods and people in the early years of U.S. History.
Protection Efforts for the Mississippi River
In order to protect the Mississippi River, the states along its bank have taken measures to maintain and improve its health. These measures are intended to ensure that the environmental and economic impact of the river remains significant. A wide variety of initiatives have been undertaken to this end, such as the establishment of nature preserves, the implementation of water conservation measures, and the planting of riparian vegetation. In addition, organizations such as the Mississippi River Commission are working to champion the appreciation, protection and restoration of the Mississippi River.
This Day in the Mississippi River
In addition to its historical and economic importance, the Mississippi River is a source of cultural pride. On July 4, 1804, the Lewis and Clark Expedition began its journey along the Mississippi River. This historic milestone marked the first official exploration of the trans-Mississippi region. The Mississippi River also plays a role in the celebration of holidays, such as the Fourth of July, where people can watch fireworks displays along the river. The Mississippi River is also the setting of numerous films, songs, and novels, making it an omnipresent source of entertainment in the U.S.
Celebrations and Festivals Near The Mississippi River
Festivals and celebrations are also held near the Mississippi River every year. These celebrations celebrate the culture and history of the states along the Mississippi River. The USA National Mississippi River Festival is held annually in St. Louis, Missouri. The festival features live music, performances, and river excursions celebrating the rich history and environment of the Mississippi River. Other celebrations near the Mississippi River include the St. Louis International Film Festival and the Trans Mississippi International Music Festival. These events showcase the vibrant culture of the region and provide opportunities for visitors to explore the Mississippi River.
Riverboat Tours of the Mississippi River
The best way to explore the Mississippi River and appreciate its beauty is to take a riverboat tour. Riverboat tours offer an up-close look at the banks of the Mississippi River and take visitors through some of the most picturesque and historic sites along the river. Riverboat tours also provide visitors with a chance to experience the unique wildlife of the Mississippi River, such as bald eagles, ospreys, and herons. Popular riverboat tours include the Natchez Steamboat, the New Orleans Riverboat, and the Minnesota Paddlewheeler. All of these tours provide an incredible experience and allow visitors to appreciate the majestic beauty of the Mississippi River.
Mississippi River Sites of Historical Importance
The Mississippi River is also home to many sites of historical importance. These sites include the battle sites of Fort Snelling and the Battle of New Orleans, as well as several Civil War battlefields. In addition, the sites along the river are important reminders of the significant role of the Mississippi River in U.S. History. The Mississippi River also provides visitors with opportunities to explore the culture and history of the region through museums, such as the Mississippi Museum of Natural History in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an essential part of the United States, providing economic and environmental benefits to the states with which it shares a border. It is a source of cultural pride for the states along its banks and has played a major role in U.S. History. There are many ways to explore and appreciate the Mississippi River, from taking a riverboat tour to visiting historical sites. As the Mississippi River continues to provide benefits to the states along its banks, it is important that these states work together to protect the river and ensure its health and well-being.
