Memphis is one of the most populated cities of the South, and the third-largest city in Tennessee. As such, it is often referred to as a “gateway” city, as it is located at the convergence of two rivers. Therefore, many people wonder – is Memphis east or west of the mighty Mississippi River?
The answer is quite simple – Memphis is west of the Mississippi River. It sits on the east end of the Chickasaw Bluffs on the west bank of the Mississippi River. In fact, the Mississippi River forms the eastern border of Memphis, where the river begins its winding course toward the Gulf of Mexico.
Due to Memphis’ location on the west bank of the Mississippi, it has long been a strategic hub for both commerce and conflict. During the Civil War, the Union Army used the Memphis/Mississippi connection to launch offensives against the Confederacy. Conversely, the Confederates used the connection to launch attacks against their Union enemies. It was this back-and-forth struggle that resulted in the area becoming known as the “Crossroads of America,” a term that is still used today.
In addition to its strategic location, Memphis’ economy also relies heavily on the Mississippi River. The river provides a vital transportation corridor for barges, which transport goods throughout the region. In addition, the river also serves as a water supply for many of the region’s towns and cities, as well as a recreational area for the population, who take advantage of its waters for fishing, boating, and other activities.
Memphis’ location on the west bank of the Mississippi River has also made it a popular destination for tourists. The city’s famous “Beale Street” is a destination for both locals and visitors alike, who come for the lively blues music and nearby attractions. Additionally, the iconic Memphis Bridge and the Mud Island River Walk are also excellent tourist attractions.
So, to answer the question, Memphis is indeed west of the mighty Mississippi river. Its strategic and economic importance to the region is undeniable, and its status as a tourist destination is unrivaled.
Impact of the River on Local Population
As mentioned, the Mississippi River is of great importance to the local population both for its various uses and for the recreation opportunities it offers. According to an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report, the Mississippi River Basin supports a large human population of over 215 million people in portions of 31 states and two Canadian provinces. This population is drawn to the region due to plentiful supplies of good-quality ground and surface water, as well as diverse species of fish, wildlife, and plants that are able to thrive in or near the river.
The same study notes that the Mississippi has seen a significant decrease in water quality in some regions due to urban, agricultural, and other industrial activities. Despite this, the EPA notes that “the continued preservation of the natural resources of the Mississippi River Basin is essential to the stability and prosperity of the region.” Consequently, a number of organizations have partnered with local governments to help preserve this invaluable resource.
The most significant of these organizations is the Conservation Alliance, which is a multi-sector partnership focused on conserving, protecting, and enhancing the Mississippi River Basin. The alliance engages both public and private partners to achieve its goals, and its initiatives help to protect both human health and the health of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems in the region. This includes planting trees, restoring wetlands, and minimizing impacts from large-scale agricultural operations.
In addition to the Conservation Alliance, many state and federal government agencies work to protect the Mississippi. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for maintaining the Mississippi’s levee system, and the Environmental Protection Agency works to reduce water pollution in the area. Other organizations, such as the Mississippi River Basin Network, also conduct research and engage citizens to help restore and protect the waters of the river.
Importance of the Mississippi River to the US Economy
The Mississippi River is a vital artery of the U.S. economy and supports over $240 billion in annual economic activity. To put this into perspective, the total GDP of Illinois is just over half of this amount. Moreover, the river is a critical source of transportation for goods and services, both domestically and internationally. Approximately $115 billion worth of products are transported along the river each year, including agricultural commodities such as corn and soybeans as well as petroleum products and industrial raw materials.
The river is also an important source of energy for many parts of the country. It is estimated that approximately 19% of all electric power consumed in the lower 48 states is generated by hydroelectric plants on the Mississippi, and the river remains the leading source of hydroelectric power in the country. Additionally, over 10 million gallons of water are drawn from the river each day to cool nuclear power plants.
Finally, the Mississippi also serves as an important recreational resource for many people. Tens of millions of people visit the river each year, taking advantage of its many recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, camping, and sightseeing. This activity contributes significantly to the local economy, both directly (through tourism-related expenses) and indirectly (through jobs supported by the recreation industry).
Environmental Challenges Faced by the River
Unfortunately, the Mississippi River faces significant environmental challenges, including but not limited to pollution and over-extraction. As mentioned previously, the river has seen a reduction in water quality in certain areas due to industrial and agricultural activities. This has resulted in severe health risks for wildlife and humans alike, including an increased risk of contamination from hazardous chemicals and pathogens.
In addition, the river suffers from over-extraction in certain areas due to rapidly-growing human populations. In some parts of the watershed, water is being removed from the river at 10 times the rate of natural replenishment. This can lead to decreased water levels, causing both economic and ecological damage.
Fortunately, organizations like the Conservation Alliance and other government and non-governmental entities are working tirelessly to protect the river and its watershed. They are engaging stakeholder groups, conducting research, and implementing policies to mitigate the negative impacts of human activities.
Memphis: A Strategic Hub of the South
The city of Memphis, which is located on the west bank of the Mississippi, has long been an important strategic asset to the region. As mentioned earlier, the city was the site of significant battles during the Civil War. It was also a key transportation hub during the Reconstruction Era, being a focal point for the railroad network. Today, the city remains an important transportation hub for industry, commerce, and recreation.
In addition to its strategic importance, Memphis is also a major cultural hub. It is home to some of the most iconic music festivals, including the Memphis in May Music Festival and the Beale Street Music Festival. It is also home to a number of museums, such as the Civil Rights Museum, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, and the National Civil Rights Museum.
The city of Memphis is also home to world-class universities, including the University of Memphis and Rhodes College. It is also the site of several professional sports teams, including the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies and the NFL’s Tennessee Titans.
In short, the city of Memphis, which is west of the Mississippi River, has been a strategic hub for the South for centuries. Its strategic and economic importance, combined with its vibrant culture, make it an ideal destination for both tourists and residents alike.
The Mississippi as a Source of Inspiration
One of the most inspiring aspects of the Mississippi River is the way that it draws people together. Despite its issues with pollution and over-extraction, the river remains an integral part of the culture and identity of millions of people. This is reflected in the songs and stories that have been inspired by the river, such as the classic tune “Ol’ Man River.”
Moreover, there are also stories of hope and perseverance, as people continue to come together in spite of the problems they are facing. This is exemplified by the Conservation Alliance and other organizations, who remain dedicated to protecting the river and its watershed. Their hard work, paired with the optimism of the people who live along the river, helps to create an inspiring story of resilience and determination.
The Mississippi River is more than just a source of water for the people of the South – it is an integral part of their culture and identity. It is a source of inspiration and hope, and it remains an important symbol to the people of the region.
Significance of the Mississippi to the Region
The Mississippi River has influenced the history, culture, and economics of the South for centuries. It is integral to the region in a number of ways, and its importance goes beyond simply providing water. The river has played an important role in the region’s strategic importance, its economic development, and its cultural identity.
Moreover, the river is also a source of recreation and a provider of clean drinking water. Its importance to the region cannot be overstated, and its preservation is of paramount importance. Organizations such as the Conservation Alliance and the Mississippi River Basin Network are working hard to ensure that the river remains healthy and accessible for all.
The importance of the Mississippi River to the South is immense. Its influence on the region’s identity, culture, and ecosystems will continue to be felt for many years to come.
