Mississippi River is the fourth longest river system in the world extending from its source in Minnesota all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. The river is known for its rich history and cultural significance, serving as the border between southern and northern states, and forming the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The river is a major economic and transportation hub and serves as a vital source of water for agricultural and industrial purposes. So, is WV West of Mississippi River?
To answer this question, one must first understand the river’s geography. The Mississippi River extends 2,320 miles from its source at Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, the river passes through 10 different US states before ending in the Gulf. While the River passes through the states of Tennessee, Arkansas, and Louisiana, the closest state that the river touches is Arkansas. West Virginia is located some 500-odd miles away from the river and is therefore, not west of the Mississippi River.
However, it is important to remember that several of West Virginia’s major metropolitan areas are indeed west of the Mississippi River, due to the vastness of the state. Charleston, the state’s capital, is located over 300 miles west of the river. Similarly, Huntington, Wheeling, Morgantown and Beckley- all major cities of West Virginia- are also all located west of the river.
Analyzing the economic impact of the Mississippi River reveals further perspectives of the question. Economically, the river is a major source of jobs and trade, providing many states with the tools and resources they need to operate. In fact, it is estimated that the river’s economic impact on the economy of Mississippi alone is over $25 billion annually! Being so far away from the river, West Virginia does not benefit from this economic engine.
In terms of culture, the Mississippi River serves as a boundary between two sides of the US, the southern and the northern sides, which, in a way, also sets apart the WV from the rest of the states that the river touches. WV, on the other hand, is part of the Appalachian region and has a distinct culture, one that is highly influenced by the various cultures, faiths and traditions of the neighboring states. This means that WV is culturally quite different from the states that are located near the Mississippi River.
Taking all of this information into account, it is clear that West Virginia is not, in fact, west of the Mississippi River. The river and the state are separated by almost 500 miles, and the impacts of the river are not seen in West Virginia. However, there are some areas of the state that are located west of the Mississippi, including some of its major cities.
West Virginia’s History
West Virginia was initially part of the Virginia colony and became its own state only in 1863, after a divisive debate between the Union and Confederacy during the American Civil War. Largely considered the first state carved out of an existing one, West Virginia was the only southern state to remain a part of the Union during the Civil War, mainly due to its anti-slavery stance. This stance has had a deep and lasting impact on West Virginia’s culture and identity, and the state is sometimes referred to affectionately as the “Mountain State.”.
West Virginia is still largely rural and relatively poor. Agriculture, coal mining, and natural gas production are its main sources of income, and its economy ranks among the bottom half of all US states. For many years, West Virginia’s economy has been hampered largely by its dependence on coal and other extractive industries, which have seen a significant decline in recent years as renewable energy sources become more popular.
The state recently made efforts to diversify its economy by encouraging the development of tourism and outdoor recreation. West Virginia boasts an abundance of natural beauty and with the development of hiking and biking trails and access to outdoor resources, the state hopes to attract more visitors in the coming years.
West Virginia is a place of diverse cultures and traditions, and is home to many distinct religious communities. West Virginians are known for their loyalty and hospitality, and the state is well known for its rich local music and folklore. Despite its poverty, West Virginia has worked hard to remain an independent state, and its people remain fiercely loyal to the state.
Impact on the Region
Although West Virginia is not located directly on the Mississippi River, its proximity to other states where the river passes has had a great impact on the development of the state. Historically, the river provided a major route of transportation and communication for those living in the region, and its significance as a trade route has been well documented. In addition, the commercial activity around the Mississippi River has had a positive effect on the economy of West Virginia as well.
Similarly, the cultural and religious diversity of the region has had a positive impact on West Virginia as well. In recent years, many different religious communities from all over the globe have migrated to the area, bringing with them their own unique beliefs and traditions. This has helped shape the cultural identity of the state and enriched the cultural fabric of West Virginia.
Although its proximity to the Mississippi River has been beneficial in some ways, it has also posed certain challenges to West Virginia. These challenges have mostly been related to water pollution and other environmental issues, which have been amplified due to the state’s reliance on river-related activities. West Virginia has worked hard to improve its water quality and has made great strides over the past few decades in doing so.
In addition, West Virginia has also been adversely impacted by the decline of coal mining and other extractive industries, which have seen a decline in recent years. This decline has put a strain on the state’s economy and has caused many of its citizens to struggle to find gainful employment. While the state has worked hard to diversify its economy and find new sources of income, the impact of the decline of extractive industries has yet to be fully addressed.
The Future of West Virginia
Despite the many challenges that West Virginia has encountered, the state remains dedicated to protecting its unique cultural identity and supporting its people. West Virginians are proud of their state and fiercely dedicated to their home, and the state has made many advances in recent years in order to improve the lives of its citizens.
The state has also worked hard to diversify its economy and find new sources of income, and has made strides in the development of tourism and renewable energy production. West Virginia has long been recognized as an excellent place to live and work, and these advancements have helped make the state even more attractive to potential job seekers and investors.
West Virginia has also stepped up its commitment to environmental protection and has implemented numerous policies in order to ensure the safety and health of its citizens and protect its valuable natural resources. Going forward, West Virginia is committed to continuing to move forward and provide its citizens with the best quality of life possible.
Conclusion
In summary, while West Virginia is not directly west of the Mississippi River, its proximity to the river has had a major influence on its culture and economy. The state is working hard to create a strong and diverse economy, which it hopes will help its citizens realize the opportunities that are available to them now and in the future. West Virginia remains fiercely loyal to its home and is dedicated to protecting its unique cultural identity and environment for future generations.
