Description
Ohio is located in the Great Lakes region in the Midwest of the United States and is bordered by West Virginia, Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, and Michigan. The state covers 41,559 square miles and is the 34th-largest state in the country. Ohio’s population stands at 11,689,100, making it the seventh-most populous state. The vast majority (more than 80%) of Ohio is east of the Mississippi River. Some of the biggest cities in Ohio are Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Toledo. Ohio is also home to some of the nation’s most iconic and historical landmarks including the Ohio Statehouse, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Geography
Ohio is divided into several geographical regions, each offering its own unique landscapes and climates. The northern region of Ohio is referred to as the North Coast and contains the Great Lakes. The Middle Region of Ohio is filled with rolling hills and prairies and features some of Ohio’s most famous tourist attractions. The Southern Region of Ohio is known for its flat plains and is home to the Ohio River and its tributaries. The Ohio River is the main river in this region, stretching from Pittsburgh in the north east to Cairo in the south west and it serves as a natural boundary between Ohio and the bordering states of Kentucky, West Virginia, and Indiana. As such, the vast majority of Ohio resides east of the Mississippi River.
Economy
Being east of the Mississippi River has been beneficial to Ohio’s economy. This region of the country is rich in resources and industries that have provided the state with economic growth and development. Ohio is a major producer of coal and natural gas, with the energy industry being one of the state’s largest employers. Agriculture is also important to the state’s economy, with corn, soybeans, and wheat among some of the most popular crops. Ohio also has a strong manufacturing industry, with the automotive, aerospace and high-tech industries being major contributors to the state’s economy. Other industries such as finance, healthcare, and tourism also contribute significantly to Ohio’s economic health.
Demographics
Ohio is home to an extremely diverse population of individuals. According to the United States Census Bureau, the racial makeup of the state is 89.3% White, 8.6% Black, 1.7% Asian, 1.2% two or more races and 0.2% American Indian or Alaska Native. The population of Ohio is also spread evenly between rural and urban areas. With over 11 million residents, Ohio is the seventh-most populous state in the country. It is also one of the fastest-growing states with a population that is shifting to major urban areas such as Cleveland and Columbus.
Politics
Being east of the Mississippi River puts Ohio in a unique political situation. The state is considered to be a swing state that leans slightly to the left, with a population of registered voters that falls close to the national average. Over the past few decades, Ohio has trended more towards the Democratic Party, voting for that party in most of the recent presidential elections. Ohio’s electoral votes also tend to be seen as crucial in any presidential election. In 2020, the state voted for Democratic candidate Joe Biden, making it the fifth time in the past six election cycles that the state backed the Democratic nominee.
Infrastructure
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has been at the forefront of improving the state’s infrastructure. ODOT is responsible for maintaining over 9,000 miles of roadway, 4,000 bridges, and over 20 rail lines in Ohio. ODOT has also focused heavily on improving the state’s public rail system, however most of the state’s rail lines are concentrated in the Eastern Regions of Ohio, with East of the Mississippi providing most of the infrastructure for public travel. ODOT also maintains the Ohio Turnpike and the Ohio River Bridges to make it much easier to travel to nearby states such as Kentucky, West Virginia, and Indiana.
Climate
Ohio experiences all four seasons each year and has an extensive variety of climates throughout the state. The northern region of Ohio can experience cold winters with heavy snowfall while the south is known for its more moderate climate. Summer months throughout the state can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the low 70s to the mid-80s in the southern part of the state. In the North, temperatures range from the high 50s to the low 70s. The Northern region of Ohio experiences the most precipitation due to its proximity to the Great Lakes, which can contribute to flooding in the area.
Conclusion
Ohio, east of the Mississippi River is a state rich in geography, economy, demographics, politics and climate. Ohio offers a wide range of experiences from its vibrant cities to its rural communities and from its rolling hills to its Great Lake coastline. This state is also home to several iconic historical and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal destination for travelers from all around the world. Ohio’s economy is largely dependent on its resources, agriculture and manufacturing industries and remains one of the most important states in the country politically. With its diverse population and wide array of climates, Ohio remains a unique state that continues to be a force in the country.
