Background of Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is an iconic feature of American culture and the second longest river in the United States. It measures 2,320 miles from its source at Lake Itasca to its mouth at the Gulf of Mexico, cutting through all or part of 10 American states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana. Located in the center of the Mississippi River is the city of Memphis, Tennessee – the birthplace of blues, rock and roll, and one of the most important cities in American history.
Memphis on the Mississippi
Memphis lies on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River in the southwestern part of Tennessee. With a population of almost 650,000, it is the largest city in the state and the 20th largest in the United States. It has been an important center of manufacturing, trade, and transportation since its founding in 1819. It is also an important site for civil rights activists – the city witnessed the assassination of famed civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968.
Relevance of Memphis on the Mississippi
Memphis is strategically located on the Mississippi River and is a major hub for river transportation. It is a vital port for shipping, with a large container terminal and cargo handling facilities. It is connected to the Gulf of Mexico by a network of canals, allowing for navigation of large ships up and down the Mississippi River. The city also forms part of the most important inland waterway in the United States – the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway – which links the Gulf of Mexico to the Great Lakes region.
Being located on the Mississippi River has helped Memphis develop and become an important city. It is an agricultural powerhouse, producing cotton, grains, soybeans and other crops that are shipped on barges along the Mississippi River to the rest of the country. It is also an important center for commerce and industry, with many businesses and factories located up and down the river. Finally, its location on the river has made it a major tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors every year.
Notable Features on the Mississippi River by Memphis
The Mississippi River around Memphis is home to a variety of attractions, from world-class theme parks to historic sites. The renowned Beale Street is a short walk away from the river and offers an abundance of live music and entertainment. Other attractions on the river include Mud Island River Park, The National Civil Rights Museum, and the Memphis Zoo.
Just south of Memphis is the iconic Graceland, the beloved home and resting place of legendary musician Elvis Presley. The riverside setting of Graceland adds an extra bit of charm, with visitors able to admire the beauty of the Mississippi River while visiting Elvis’s estate. The city also features a variety of other musical landmarks, such as Sun Studio and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.
Environmental Impact on the Mississippi River by Memphis
Unfortunately, the Mississippi River also has its fair share of pollution. Pollutants from industrial and agricultural runoff have threatened the health of the river for decades. Add in the problem of garbage and sewage runoff from cities and towns nearby and it’s no surprise that the river is now an unhealthy place to be. Fortunately, there are many local and national efforts underway to restore and protect the river, ensuring its long-term health and vitality.
Economic Impact of the Mississippi River on Memphis
As well as being a site of immense natural beauty and historical significance, the Mississippi River has had a significant economic impact on the city of Memphis. Over the years, the city has become a transportation hub, with cargo and passenger ships, tugboats, barges, and cruise ships traversing the river, helping to move goods and services. Furthermore, Memphis has seen a great deal of growth and development near the riverfront, transforming it into a vibrant, modern city.
Cultural Impact of the Mississippi River on Memphis
The cultural impact of the Mississippi River in Memphis has been equally significant. It is the birthplace of the blues, and today there are plenty of music venues and clubs along the river where people can enjoy live performances. The river is also home to a variety of art galleries, museums and theaters.
Memphis’s unique culture is also linked to the river. The city’s riverfront has been the scene of a number of notable events, including the famous ‘Steamboat Race’ between Memphis and New Orleans in 1858. This race signified an important point in the development of Memphis – a recognition of the city’s importance as a river trading port.
Conclusion
Memphis is located on the Mississippi River, and its location has shaped the city’s development and culture in countless ways. From providing an essential transportation hub to being a source of entertainment and inspiration, the Mississippi River plays an important role in the life of the city. It is a special part of Memphis’s history, and a place filled with potential and opportunity.
