Introduction
The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic landscapes in the American Midwest. Spanning 2,320 miles, it is home to numerous capital cities in five different states. The powerful river plays an integral role in the history and culture of the United States. In this article, we will explore the capital cities located on the Mississippi River and the importance of this natural wonder.
History
The mighty Mississippi River has been an integral part of American history for centuries, playing host to numerous important events. The Louisiana Purchase of 1803 saw France cede their land located along the Mississippi to the United States. Much of the American Civil War was fought along its banks, and during the 1950s the river was a major artery for goods between the Midwest and the Gulf of Mexico. From Native American hunting and fishing grounds to vital transportation routes for goods and services, the Mississippi River is one of the most historically significant and important waterways in the United States.
Capital Cities & Towns
The Mississippi River forms the border between many different states, most prominently Minnesota and Wisconsin. It is also the border between Iowa and Illinois and between Mississippi and Louisiana. Along the river lies numerous capital cities, all of which are located on its banks.
In Minnesota, St. Paul is home to both the state capital, as well as its second largest city. Across the river, Wisconsin’s capital is at Madison, located on the western shore. Dubuque sits at the junction of the Mississippi and the Wisconsin River, and serves as the border between Iowa and Wisconsin.
In Illinois, the historic city of Alton is the home of many steamboats, making it a popular tourist spot along the river. Farther south, St. Louis is the largest city on the Mississippi. It acts as the gateway between the Midwest and the Gulf of Mexico, and was the site of the first World’s Fair in 1879.
On the other side of the river, two capital cities exist in Mississippi. Natchez is the oldest settlement of its kind, and sits on a large bluff overlooking the water. Farther south, the state capital of Jackson is located at the conduit of three rivers.
Economic Impact
The Mississippi River has long been an important resource in terms of economics. It provides a way to export goods to other parts of the United States and the world, as well as move commodities upstream. It also has been used to provide a means of transportation, since the economy developed in the 1800s.
In terms of tourism, the Mississippi is home to several national parks, as well as numerous state parks on both sides of the river. These offer both outdoor recreational areas, as well as a glimpse of the natural wonder of the Mississippi River.
Current Challenges
The Mississippi River has been subject to many environmental challenges throughout its history. Dredging and pollution are two of the most pressing issues facing the river today. In recent years, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have taken on a large project to reverse the effects of dredging, and bring the river back to its natural appearance.
In terms of pollution, both upstream water sources and toxins from artificial sources have caused great harm to the river. Genetically modified crops, fracking activities, and urban runoff are some of the more immediate environmental issues facing the Mississippi.
Lifeblood of the Midwest
The Mississippi River has been an integral part of American history, culture, and commerce for hundreds of years. It also serves as an economic asset for numerous capital cities located along its banks. The current challenges posed by pollution and dredging must be addressed in order to maintain its place in the economic and cultural landscape.
The Five Other States
The iconic Mississippi River passes through five other states: Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Illinois. While there are no capital cities located in these states, many of them have major urban hubs situated on the waterways.
In Arkansas, Little Rock is situated along the river, as is Memphis in Tennessee. Louisville is the largest city along the Ohio River in Kentucky and is also just a few miles away from the Mississippi. Missouri’s capital of Jefferson City, St. Louis, and East St. Louis are all located along the river.
Conservation Efforts
The effects of pollution, overuse and destruction have had a detrimental effect on the Mississippi River. The US Army Corps of Engineers, The Nature Conservancy and local non-profits are all engaged in various efforts to preserve and protect the river.
Priority one is reducing the amount of sediment, fertilizer and agricultural chemicals that flow into the river. This includes reduced. Nutrient concentrations must be monitored and total maximum daily load (TMDL) limits must be established and enforced.
The second priority is to reduce the amount of water used from the Mississippi. Increasing the amount of water returned to the river helps reduce erosion and ensures the health of the Upper Mississippi by reducing flood risk and improving water quality.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an integral part of American history and culture. Its many capital cities have served as important centers of trade and commerce, and its natural beauty has attracted countless visitors over the years. The current challenges posed by pollution, overuse and destruction must be addressed in order to maintain this unique, valuable resource. Conservation efforts from all levels of government, non-profits, and local citizen groups must be continued in order to preserve and protect the river’s place in the economic and cultural landscape.
