The four rivers that flow into the Mississippi River are the Missouri, Illinois, Ohio, and Arkansas Rivers. Each of these rivers begins in different parts of the Midwest and flows together as one, creating the geography and climate that is now distinctive to the Mississippi River.
The Missouri River is the longest and most prominent river that feeds into the Mississippi. It begins in the Rocky Mountains of Western Montana and flows southeast for about 2,341 miles until it reaches the Mississippi at St. Louis in Missouri. Along its journey, the Missouri picks up sediment from the states it passes through and combines it with the other rivers to form the classic Mississippi river delta and provide lush wetlands for the local wildlife.
The Illinois River is the second-longest river to feed the Mississippi. It is located in the midwestern United States and begins in Wisconsin before winding its way southward towards its mouth in the Mississippi at Grafton, Illinois. It is approximately 273 miles in length and provides a variety of natural habitats and scenic views along its banks.
The third river to enter the Mississippi is the Ohio River. It begins in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and flows south and west, into the Mississippi at Cairo, Illinois. Its length is 981 miles and has been the major artery of transportation and commerce for the midwestern United States for centuries.
The fourth and final river to join the Mississippi is the Arkansas River. It begins in the high plains of Colorado and flows generally eastward for 1,457 miles before eventually joining the Mississippi near Arkansas City, Arkansas. Throughout its course, the river passes through five states and provides water for irrigation along much of its length.
Economic Impact
The intersection of the four rivers with the Mississippi has been essential for commerce throughout American history. Many of the first cities to become established were located along the rivers’ banks and their commerce, trade and industry have been possible in large part due to their direct connection with the Mississippi River. Indeed, the combination of navigable waterways in the Mississippi Basin has formed one of the largest, most popular and most cost-effective ways to travel, trade and transport goods and commodities throughout much of the United States.
The four rivers and the Mississippi also are important for shipping and trade, as several major ports are located along the river system and millions of tons of goods and commodities are shipped through the region each year. Because of the large amounts of water that pass through the rivers and their intersecting points, they also are essential for maintaining ecological balance and providing fresh water to many of the regions that they touch.
The intersection of the rivers into the Mississippi has been instrumental in transporting goods, materials, and resources to and from the Midwest, helping to catalyze the region’s growth and prosperity.
Environmental Impact
The merger of the four rivers into the Mississippi has also had an environmental impact on the region. The steady flow of the rivers creates a unique aquatic habitat for wildlife and the unique wetlands created by the delta system can be a refuge for many species of birds and fish. The four rivers are also integral to the maintenance of water levels in the Mississippi, as well as keeping water temperatures at a steady rate.
The four rivers and their tributaries are also essential for the mitigation of floods and storm-related water damage for the region that the Mississippi basin serves. The flowing rivers provide a natural response to rising water levels and can help to divert and redirect water away from populated areas.
Social Impact
The presence of the four rivers has had a large social impact on the local population surrounding the Mississippi. The presence of the rivers has helped to create a vibrant culture and a close-knit community made up of people whose lives are intertwined with the rivers. Many recreational activities are available to the population, including fishing, kayaking, and pleasure boating.
The rivers are also important for providing drinking water for many of the small towns and villages along their banks, as well as supplying water to the agricultural areas throughout the region. The presence of the rivers has also enabled many businesses to thrive and provide an economic stimulus to their communities.
Cultural Impact
The merging of the four rivers into the Mississippi has also had an important cultural significance. Many of the region’s First Nations have lived along the rivers for centuries and have used the rivers for fishing, transportation and trading. Their cultural landscape has been shaped by their interactions with the rivers and their importance to their societies is evident.
The intersection of the four rivers that feed the Mississippi has also been celebrated in stories, songs, and art. Through these forms of expression, the importance of rivers and the Mississippi River Basin are highlighted and their role in the region’s culture and history is immortalized.
Conclusion
The four rivers that feed the Mississippi are an integral part of the local ecology, economy, and culture. From wildlife to industries, the rivers are essential for life in the midwestern United States and their merger has enabled both progress and prosperity in a unique fashion. Without the Missouri, Illinois, Ohio, and Arkansas Rivers, the Mississippi and its basin would look quite differently.
