A Unique Place
The Mississippi is a great variety of ecosystems – both terrestrial and aquatic. This makes it a great home to thousands of species of plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else. The river’s wetlands in particular provide much of the wildlife diversity, and its changing gradient and sparkle with light makes it a wonderful sight in its own right. In short, it’s a unique biological setting with species and habitats that have yet to be protected.
The World’s Longest River System
At 2,340 miles (3,766 kilometers) long, the Mississippi River is the world’s longest river system. This impressive feat is due to the fact that the river’s headwaters, or source, is located near the Canadian border while its mouth is at the Gulf of Mexico, making it a major player in the United States’ economy. In addition to its sheer length, the Mississippi also boasts a depth of up to 200 feet (60 meters), making it deeper than any of its tributaries!
Economic Benefits
Given its great length, depth and locations, it’s no surprise that the Mississippi River has some important economic benefits. For instance, it’s a major transportation route for both goods and people, acting as an essential link between the Upper Midwest and the Gulf Coast. Additionally, millions of acres of watersheds along the river’s length provide sources of energy and drinking water for many states.
Cultural Significance
The Mississippi River has played an important role in the country’s culture for centuries. From its exploration by the French in the early 1600s to its use as a place for cultural mixing, the river has been a major player in the nation’s history. It was also a key figure in the slave trade and in early industrialization. Given these important historical roles, the Mississippi stands as a symbol of both American strength and reformation.
Dangerous Waters
Despite its incredible importance, the Mississippi is also known for being quite dangerous. For one, swirling currents and faster-than-usual water flows can make navigation difficult, while strong current and crosswinds can cause boats and rivercrafts to flip over in an instant. In addition to this, the banks of the Mississippi are known for their wildness, with dangerous wildlife and large objects that can destroy any boat that is in their way.
Threatened Plant and Animal Life
In recent years, the Mississippi River has been greatly threatened by climate change, with altered water levels causing disruption in the ecosystems housed within it. For instance, the high temperatures associated with climate change can cause fish and other creatures to die, while altered river flows can destroy important habitat. Additionally, human activities such as overfishing, dam construction and pollution add to the danger of the river, threatening both its flora and fauna.
Landmarks of the Mississippi
While it’s clear that the Mississippi River is one of the most significant waterways in the United States, it is also home to many iconic landmarks. One of which is the two-mile-long (3.2 km) steel arch bridge in Memphis, Tennessee, which is known as the “Mighty Mississippi”. This majestic structure is said to represent the spirit of the many people and cultures that have emerged from the river.
The Magnitude of the Mississippi
Finally, one of the most impressive and interesting facts about the Mississippi is its sheer magnitude. It is said to displace about 6 million cubic feet of water every second and holds up to 1.7 billion gallons of water in a single day. This reveals the river’s true power, making it one of the most remarkable and awe-inspiring places in the United States.
The Artistic History of the Mississippi
The history of the Mississippi River is inextricably tied to the nation’s history and art. The work of American poets, painters, and galvanized steel workers all offer different perspectives on the gifts and sorrows of the River. The literature on the river presents a refreshing mosaic of different perspectives and takes on the history of the river. Literary works such as Huckleberry Finn and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer tell us about life on the Mississippi in the 19th century, whilst modern works such as The Great Flood remind us of the devastating effects of the river’s floods.
Architecture along the River
The Mississippi River is instrumental in the history and development of the Deep South landscape. Graceful and iconic structures like the Cypress Knee-Lift Bridge and the Stennis Lock and Dam grace the river’s shoreline, while historical sites like Beauvoir—the final home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis—explore southern chivalry and legacy.
The Wonders of Technology
Thanks to modern technology, modern river cruises offer a stunning glimpse into the past. From steamboats to paddle-wheel cruises, passengers are exposed to the rich history and culture of the riverbanks in ways unparalleled a century ago. The ships themselves are wonders of technology, engineered to perfectly navigate the strong currents of the river and deliver to guests a truly awe-inspiring experience.
The Mississippi – America’s beating Heart
Finally, it’s impossible to ignore the Mississippi’s vibrant communities and lush vegetation that provide an essential habitat for wildlife. From its bustling towns to its rich eco-diversity, the Mississippi is a beating heart for the United States and a priceless part of its character. From healing waters to some of the most productive fishing grounds in the country, it’s clear that the Mississippi’s many gifts still continue to be appreciated.
