Natural Resources
The states located east of the Mississippi River are diverse, stretching from Maine in the north to Florida in the south. One common feature of all 10 states is the availability of natural resources such as timber, rivers, and lakes. Maine, for example, is known for its expansive forests and abundant coastline. The abundance of both fresh and saltwater sources in Maine has allowed the state to develop an extensive fishing industry. New Hampshire is another state located east of the Mississippi which has vast forests and mountains, making it ideal for timber harvesting, mining activities, and recreational activities.
Massachusetts is the most populous of the 10 states, boasting a well-developed infrastructure along with some of the best colleges and universities in the country. The historical significance of Massachusetts, as well as its coastal features, makes it a prime location for tourism as well. Rhode Island is known for its seafood and a smaller population than most of the other states. The state’s abundant coastline ensures an array of delicious seafood, while its smaller population makes it great for those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle.
Connecticut is the home of many well-known private universities, as well as a bustling financial sector. It is also the first state to pass a law mandating that employers provide their employees with health insurance. New York, unsurprisingly, has a booming tourism sector. Brooklyn and Manhattan are two of the most well-known cities in the world and offer an array of activities for newcomers and locals alike. In addition to the Manhattan skyline, the state is also home to Niagara Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the world. Vermont is known for its dairy farms, as well as its rugged mountains and snow-capped peaks. Snowmobiling is a popular amusement in the colder months, while skiing and snowshoeing are great alternatives.
New Jersey, the state with the highest population density of any state, is known for its vast infrastructure, which includes the famous Jersey Shore. Maryland is home to the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary system in the country. The bay is home to a variety of wildlife and is a popular boating and fishing destination. Delaware is sometimes referred to as “the first state” because it was the first to ratify the constitution of the United States in 1787. It is also a popular destination for corporations due to its tax-friendly environment. Finally, Florida is known for its many beaches and its theme parks, including Disney World. It is also a great destination for retirees.
Economy
Due to the diverse geography and industries found in the states east of the Mississippi, the economic makeup of each is quite distinct. Maine and New Hampshire are the two most rural states of the 10 and are heavily forested, which has led to an abundance of timber, fishing, and outdoor recreation opportunities. As previously mentioned, Massachusetts and New York are heavily industrialized, boasting world-renowned financial and educational institutions. For Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Delaware, their economies both depend on finance and other service-oriented industries, while Maryland and Virginia have become hubs for defense and security companies.
Both Vermont and New Jersey are heavily industrialized and heavily depend on the service industry. Vermont is well-known for producing high-quality dairy products and crafts, while New Jersey is famous for its casinos and Atlantic City. Finally, Florida is known for its tourism industry, its strong defense and aerospace sectors, and its growing space industry.
Additionally, many of the 10 states located east of the Mississippi are some of the most populous in the country. As a result, living costs can be higher, and economic gaps tend to be wider. These states are attractive to many due to the business opportunities, natural resources, and educational opportunities present in the region.
Culture
The culture of the states east of the Mississippi River is diverse, due in part to the various ethnicities, religions and backgrounds represented within each region. For example, Maine and New Hampshire are known for their strong Puritan roots and Protestant traditions, while Vermont and Massachusetts continue to host a number of old-fashioned living and working traditions in colonial-era structures. New Jersey and Connecticut have long been diverse with a wide range of global immigrant populations and a great variety of languages and cultural practices.
When it comes to cuisine, the states east of the Mississippi have something to offer all types of eaters. Maryland and the Delaware are home to some of the best seafood in the country, while New York and Connecticut are known for their Italian and Jewish delis. Maine is renowned for its lobster, while Vermont is known for its maple syrup. Florida and New Jersey are home to some of the best culinary destinations in the US.
Various musical styles such as hip hop, jazz, and blues can be heard in the streets of the cities of the 10 states east of the Mississippi. Live music from various locations, from the traditional jazz venues of New York to the country music bars of Florida are popular pastimes for many of the residents. Tourists and residents alike can experience a wide array of cultural offerings, from art shows in Maryland to stops on historical routes in Maine.
Education
The eastern states offer an abundance of educational opportunities, ranging from public schools to prestigious universities. Maine and New Hampshire boast some of the best public school systems in the country, while Massachusetts and Rhode Island are known for their high-ranking universities. For example, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University are both located in Massachusetts. Additionally, Connecticut and New York are home to a number of renowned private schools, some of which are considered among the best in the world.
The states east of the Mississippi are also home to some of the best community colleges in the US. Examples include the Vermont Community College system, the Delaware Community College System, and the Community College of Rhode Island. Education in the eastern states is continuously evolving, from support for educational initiatives and programs to increased funding for research and development.
Climate
The climate in each of the 10 states ranges from humid subtropical climates in the south to boreal climates in the north. In general, the states are located in the humid continental zone, meaning summers are hot and humid and winters are cold. For example, Florida experiences temperatures in the 90s (Fahrenheit) during most of the summer and lows in the 70s during winter months. In contrast, Maine and New Hampshire experience cool summer months and cold winters with plenty of snow.
The states east of the Mississippi River also experience plenty of rain. Most of the states in this part of the country receive an average of 40 to 50 inches of precipitation annually. Such states would include New York, Massachusetts, Maryland, and Vermont. In comparison, Florida and Delaware receive less precipitation, around 30 to 35 inches per year.
Transportation
Due to the many states east of the Mississippi, due to the number of states and their close proximity to one another, de transportation between states is quite easy. Most of these states are connected to each other via Interstate Highways, such as Interstate 95, and many have railroad services, such as Amtrak. Plane travel is often the quickest option, and the major cities of each state are served by hub airports.
Public transportation is also available in most of the states, with bus and rail services, as well as commuter rail in most of the larger cities. Boston and New York City are two of the most well-known public transit systems in the region, and many cities in the 10 states offer comprehensive public transit systems.
In conclusion, the 10 states located east of the Mississippi River are diverse and offer plenty of opportunities for business, natural resources, and attractions. Their climates, economies, and cultures vary in individuals, making each one an interesting and unique place to visit or live.
