Geography students and students of history of the USA are interested in learning the number of states west of the Mississippi River. This is the fourth longest river in North America, and its name is derived from the Ojibwe language, meaning ‘great river’.
A quick analysis of the maps available shows that the states west of the Mississippi River come up to almost a dozen. These states are Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Utah, Colorado, and California.
To be sure, however, many experts would consider Missouri and Arkansas as states west of the Mississippi River, stretching the figure slightly to thirteen. Both states have part of their territory on the western side of the Mississippi.
The Mississippi River marks the boundary between the Eastern United States and the Western United States. If the eastern boundary of the Mississippi River is taken as the border of the western states, then there could be as many as sixteen western states, including the two abovementioned: Missouri and Arkansas.
The river also serves as a major transportation route and it has been called a “cultural boundary.” It also serves as a physical boundary between states. Travelling along the banks of the Mississippi River provides an interesting and unique experience. The river is home to some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes.
The western states not only share a border with the Mississippi, but they can also be characterized by the vast stretches of plains, forests and deserts characteristic of the region. The western states have some of the most breath-taking national parks, offering adventure, solitude and breathtaking scenery. The vast expanses of plains, mountains and coastal areas form the perfect backdrop for a range of activities.
It is also interesting to note that states west of the Mississippi River are home to some of the most famous cities in the United States. These include San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver and Seattle, among others. The states are also host to some of the most iconic monuments and landmarks of the United States, such as the Grand Canyon and Mount Rushmore.
Economic Effects
The states to the west of the Mississippi River have been beneficiaries of a booming economy in the region over the past few decades. In terms of economic growth, the region has outstripped the rest of the nation. This economic growth has been built on the back of technological advances and the discovery of new resources. This has caused a resurgence in employment opportunities in the region, leading to greater economic wellbeing for the region’s residents.
The states to the west of the Mississippi River have also seen a transformation in their educational systems, with state-of-the-art learning institutions being developed. This has enabled the region to access the latest education and technology, positioning the region well to embrace the digital revolution.
A further boost to the region has been the emergence of Silicon Valley, an area in California with the highest concentration of computer and internet companies. This has been a major draw for businesses seeking to take advantage of the entrepreneurial opportunities that the area provides.
The influx of businesses seeking to relocate to the West of the Mississippi River has also attracted a large number of highly-skilled people, generating a boost in the labour market of the region. This has been further compounded by the improvements in infrastructure and the economic policies in place in the region.
Social and Cultural Effects
The states to the west of the Mississippi River have long been considered to be an area of social liberation and free-thinking in the United States. This has resulted in an increasing presence of people from various backgrounds and orientations coming together in the region, creating a melting pot of cultural diversity. This has enabled the region to become a hub for creative arts, music and fashion.
Moreover, the area has also become the focus of a significant number of social movements, including the gay rights, civil rights, and feminist movements. This has allowed the region to become a place of acceptance and understanding, and hence, the migration of people seeking to live in more progressive societies.
The Western states have also become the destination for those wishing to pursue their dreams and passions. This is largely due to the infrastructure, educational opportunities and social values that the region offers.
In recent years, the region has also seen the emergence of an increasing number of technology startups, with a significant portion based in the coastal area of the West. This has accelerated the development of the region and provided further opportunities for those seeking to take advantage of the vast potential of the region.
Environmental Effects
The states west of the Mississippi River lie within a region that is deeply affected by climate change. This is especially true in California, the most populous state in the western region.
Due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and its vast swaths of arid land, California is on the front lines of the climate change war. Rising sea levels have put the coastline at risk of collapse, and extreme weather conditions have increased the frequency and severity of fires.
The other states in the region have not been exempt from the effects of climate change either. Scorching temperatures and drought have affected large swaths of land, resulting in the degradation of natural ecosystems and a decrease in agricultural productivity.
The environmental impact of climate change has been linked to other challenges in the region such as deforestation and the threats posed by invasive species. All of these have led to a decrease in biodiversity and loss of habitat, with severe consequences on the natural resources and habitats in the region.
International Effects
The Western states of the USA have close ties with two major international players, namely Canada and Mexico. These states have shared trade links and cultural exchanges with both countries for many years. This has resulted in a significant number of immigrants coming to their region, particularly from Mexico.
In recent years, the states to the west of the Mississippi River have seen an increase in the number of tourists visiting the region. This is due to the attractive sights and cultural experiences that can be found in the city. For example, in 2020, California alone had earned almost $ 140 billion from tourism.
The states have also strengthened economic ties with other countries, particularly Mexico, through agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Free trade agreements have helped both countries to benefit from increased economic growth, increased investments, and shared economic development opportunities.
The states west of the Mississippi River have increasingly moved towards strengthening diplomatic ties with other countries, with the hope of creating a more peaceful and prosperous region. This has included signing peace agreements with other countries, establishing regional organizations, and advancing regional integration.
Conclusion
The states west of the Mississippi River have a deep connection to its history, culture, and economy. These countries have benefited greatly from increased investment, trade links, and shared social values. This has contributed to the growth of the region, providing a platform for further progress.
