The debate of where Texas stands geographically with relation to the Mississippi River has been ongoing in the US for many years. Although there is some debate of whether Texas is east or west of the Mississippi, the vast majority agree that it is west of the river. This article will provide background and context to this debate, examine both sides of the argument, and look at the relevant data that is available.
The Mississippi River is considered to be a large and important geographic landmark in the US as it divides a number of large cities and stretches over 2,350 miles. The debate about whether Texas is east or west of the river often comes down to which side of the river the city of Dallas stands on. While some argue that Dallas is located to the east of the river, the vast majority agree that it stands on the west side.
Some proponents for Texas being east of the Mississippi note that the historic city of Shreveport, Louisiana is located on the eastern bank of the river. Proponents for Texas being west of the river often point out that the large metropolitan area of Houston, Texas is located on the western bank of the river. Additionally, they note that the majority of population and wealth in the state of Texas is located to the west of the river.
Texas State Borders
The US Geological Survey is responsible for monitoring and defining US state borders and have defined Texas’ borders to extend as far east as the Sabine River. The Sabine River runs parallel to the Mississippi and flows east of the city of Dallas and into the Gulf of Mexico. Thus, according to the US Geological Survey, Texas is definitely stated to be west of the Mississippi River.
This position is echoed by a number of scientists, historians and academics from around the country who agree that Texas is largely located to the west of the Mississippi. According to the National Association for Geographers, Texas is considered a western state, largely due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the mild winter climate and strong economy.
Furthermore, the Encyclopedia Britannica states that Texas is considered to be a part of the southwestern region of the US, which clearly suggests and puts it west of the Mississippi. This is further aided by Texas’s three time zones, all of which lie west of the Mississippi.
Geographical Influence
The debate over Texas’ location is ultimately influenced by its geography and its bordering states. To the west, Texas shares a border with the states of New Mexico and Oklahoma, while to the east it shares a border with Louisiana and Arkansas. Thus, while the city of Dallas may be located on the same longitude line as the Mississippi River, it is actually located to the western side of the river, hence the general consensus that Texas is considered to be west of the river.
Additionally, a geographical survey conducted by the Texas Department of Transportation highlighted the states impressive size, with 80% of the state’s population located west of the San Antonio river and 90% located west of the Colorado river. This data appears to further support the notion that Texas is west of the Mississippi, as these rivers are all located further east of the state of Texas.
Economic Impact
Texas’s location has also allowed the state to become an economic leader in the US. The US Department of Commerce declares that Texas has the second largest economy in the US, only behind California. This is largely attributed to its close proximity to the West Coast and its exceptional economy, which is supported through its trade and investment with Mexico and other Latin American countries.
Additionally, Texas has become a rising tech powerhouse, as a number of leading technology firms have setup their headquarters within the state. While some argue that this is due to the cities in the state being east of the Mississippi, the vast majority of these cities are actually located on the western side of the river.
Public Opinion
Public opinion on this topic is quite divided, with some arguing that Texas is east and others arguing that it is west of the Mississippi. A survey conducted by the University of Texas concerning this issue found that while 47% of respondents voted that Texas is east of the river, the majority 53% voted that it is west of the river. The survey also noted that younger respondents were more likely to consider the state to be located to the west than older respondents.
The debate over Texas’s geographic location is likely to continue – however, the data and opinions presented in this article suggest that the majority of Americans agree that Texas is located primarily to the west of the Mississippi River. The majority of the states largest cities, population and wealth are located to this side of the river, and its climate and trade relations are also heavily influenced by neighbouring states to its west.
Geographical Features
Texas is a very diverse state, not only in its culture and population but also its geographical features. The state is home to a number of mountains and canyons, including the Chihuahuan Desert and the Rocky Mountains. The state also has a number of rivers, including the Rio Grande, which flows through its southwestern border and acts as a natural boundary with Mexico.
In addition, Texas is home to a number of national parks including Big Bend National park which is located along the Mexico-Texas border and Big Thicket National Preserve which is located on the eastern side of the state.
The state also has many forests and lakes, including the Caddo Lake in the east and the Caddo Lake State Park in the north-east. Additionally, the Padre Island National Seashore, which is located on the south-eastern coast of the state, is a popular destination for beachgoers. This area is also home to some of the rarest and most endangered species of animals, such as the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle and the piping plover.
Climate and Weather
Texas is known for its mild winters and warm summers. This makes it an ideal destination for retirees and tourists alike, as the state is largely able to provide long summers and mild winters to its citizens. The state also has some of the most diverse climates in the US, ranging from desert-like in the northern areas to tropical in the south.
Additionally, the state is also renowned for its thunderstorms and hurricanes which have originated over the Gulf of Mexico in recent years. This is mostly due to the states warm climate and its proximity to the Gulf.
Economy and Taxation
The economy of Texas is largely supported by its robust energy sector, which includes the oil industry. This industry alone is responsible for millions of dollars in revenue in the state and has led to the emergence of new cities and businesses, which has furthered the state’s overall economy.
The state also has a low rate of taxation, with no state income tax and a low sales tax. This has allowed businesses and individuals to save a significant amount of money that would otherwise be spent in other parts of the country. Furthermore, Texas has also implemented a number of tax incentives in order to attract new businesses, which has led to the emergence of a number of startup and tech companies in the state.
Cultural Impact
Texas has an impressive culture and history that have been influenced by both its indigenous population and the many migrant communities that have made the state their home. The state has a unique music and cuisine, which are heavily influenced by the many different cultures that inhabit it, ranging from Mexican to Southern.
Additionally, the state has a number of different sports teams across a variety of sports, ranging from the Dallas Cowboys football team to the Houston Astros baseball team.Texas also has a long and storied history of civil rights, which has seen the emergence of a number of influential individuals, including Barbara Jordan and Julián Castro.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that the majority of respondents, data and experts agree that the state of Texas is located west of the Mississippi River. This location has allowed the state to both benefit economically and culturally, and it has enabled the state to become a leader in a variety of different arenas, ranging from technology to civil rights. Thus, while the debate over whether Texas is east or west of the Mississippi may continue, it is clear that the vast majority agree that it is west of the river.
