Is Ohio West of the Mississippi River?
Ohio lies in the eastern midwestern region of the United States and is bordered by four states: Kentucky, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. The Ohio River is a major tributary of the Mississippi River, and on its western border lies the divide between the two. So, the question remains: is Ohio west of the Mississippi?
The answer to this question is actually quite simple. Ohio is east of the Mississippi River and is therefore not considered to be part of the western region of the United States. Despite its proximity to the Mississippi River, Ohio is part of the Midwest and is not considered to belong to the western states.
Geographic & Political Considerations
The kind of geographic and political considerations that play into this determination are the same which differentiate the midwest from the western regions of the United States. According to the United States Census Bureau, Ohio is classified as part of the Midwest region of the US, which includes Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. The more recognizable states that are part of the Midwest are the Great Lakes states: Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
In addition to the geographic and political considerations, there is also the cultural side of the equation. Ohio is considered to be one of the most important states in the Midwest, there are a variety of distinct cultural touchstones which make Ohio unique from the other midwestern states. Ohio is home to several major cities, and is home to some of the most influential figures in US history.
Ohio is also home to a variety of college and university sports teams, which make the state an integral part of the region’s culture. Ohio also has a rich musical history, from the classic rock of Cleveland’s Rock and Roll hall of fame to the alternative rock of Dayton’s Ataris. There is no question that Ohio stands out among its midwestern counterparts and plays a unique role in defining what it means to be a Midwestern state.
Historical & Geographic Theory
When it comes to historical and geographic theory there are a few theories that support the notion that Ohio is not a western state. Historians often look to historical treaties and documents in order to come to a conclusion on the matter. The most famous example of an Ohio treaty was the Treaty of Greenville, which was an agreement between the United States and native Americans in the region.
The treaty stated that the Ohio River would serve as the boundary between the two groups and this boundary later became the line of demarcation between the Midwest and the West. This theory is known as the Doctrine of Discovery, and it argues that the western and midwestern portions of the United States are divided by the Ohio River. By this logic, Ohio would be on the eastern side of the line, making it part of the Midwest instead of the West.
The Midwest-West Divide
The divide between the Midwest and the West is more than just a geographic one. Physically, the Midwest is east of the Mississippi River and the land mass between the Midwest and the Rocky Mountains constitutes what is considered to be the West region. Culturally, the Midwest is known for being more conservative, traditional and religious compared to the West.
There is a large divide between the two regions in terms of values and beliefs. The Midwest also has a strong agricultural presence and is home to a number of small towns and rural areas. This stands in stark contrast to the West which is known for its more liberal values and its major metropolitan cities.
Conclusion of Ohio’s Location
So, when all is said and done, is Ohio west of the Mississippi River? No, based on the physical, geographic, political, and historical evidence discussed above, Ohio is east of the Mississippi, putting it firmly in the Midwest.
While it may be close, Ohio’s proximity to the Mississippi is not enough to classify it as part of the western region, and so it remains a cherished and integral part of our midwestern home.
Historical Significance
Ohio has a historical significance that sets it apart from all other states in the midwest. It was the first state to be admitted to the Union after the 1787 Northwest Ordinance. Ohio was also the home of President Ulysses Grant and is where he wrote his famed memoirs. Ohio has also been at the forefront of technological innovation, having been one of the first states to adopt automated manufacturing. Ohio is one of the top five states in wind energy production, solar energy production and other clean energy initiatives.
The state is also home to a variety of national and state parks, recreation areas, and historic sites. Ohio is home to the first national park east of the Mississippi River, Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Ohio is also home to the world-famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.
Economic Impact
Ohio has a long and varied economic history, having always been an important industrial state. The cities of Cleveland, Toledo, and Akron are credited with leading the industrial revolution in the midwest. The steel industry was a major driving force of the economy until the 1970s. Ohio is now home to a variety of industries including technology, health care, and automotive.
Ohio is also a major agricultural state, with a strong livestock and dairy industry. The state is one of the top producers of soybeans and corn in the country. Ohio is also a major producer of energy resources, having large reserves of both natural gas and coal.
Demographics
Ohio is home to over 11 million people, making it the seventh most populous state in the country. Ohio is a diverse state, with a population that is 79.2% White, 12.4% African American, 1.7% Asian and 4.6% Hispanic or Latino. It is also home to a variety of religious beliefs, with Christianity being the most common faith.
Ohio has a rich educational system, with a wide variety of public and private schools to choose from. Ohio is also home to a number of notable universities including Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, and Case Western Reserve University.
Cultural Impact
Ohio has a rich cultural history with a strong influence from its European settlers. The state has a unique blend of traditional folk music and modern rock. Ohio is home to a variety of art galleries and museums, as well as a lively performing arts scene. It is home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Ohio is also known for its love of sports, particularly basketball and college football.
Ohio is a state that is known for its diverse culture, rich history, and its dedication to progress. Even though it is not part of the West, Ohio proves that it is an important part of our midwestern home.
