The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic and recognized rivers in the United States. As the fourth longest river in the US, it’s winding course through the United States extends from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.
Spanning as much as 2,320 miles from start to finish, the mighty Mississippi divides a handful of states along its course. Among them is the state of Missouri, and within that state, lies one of the largest cities west of the Mississippi River. That city is St. Louis, Missouri.
St. Louis is the largest city located west of the Mississippi, with a population of just over 300,000 people. It is a major port city with a long history of culture and industry. Founded in 1764 by Pierre Laclede and Auguste Chouteau as a fur trading post, its industry has grown to include aerospace, transportation, health care, and biotechnology. St. Louis is home to a number of professional sports teams, the Gateway Arch, and some of the best barbeque in the United States.
The city’s strong industrial and business roots have made it an important component in the Midwest region’s job market, with the population continuing to expand. St. Louis boasts a diverse population, composed of various racial, religious and ethnic backgrounds. This makes it a very diverse and vibrant city, and one that is melting pot of cultures.
Although St. Louis holds the title for the largest city west of the Mississippi, that may not always be the case. Denver, Colorado, the capital of the Rocky Mountain State, is quickly gaining in population, and may eventually surpass St. Louis as the largest city. Boasting excellent transportation links, world-class skiing, and a booming economy, it’s no wonder that Denver is a desirable destination for many people.
Much like St. Louis, Denver is a cultural hub, brimming with museums, performing arts venues, parks, and nightlife. It’s home to some of the best restaurants and breweries in the United States, making it one of the nation’s top culinary destinations. From a population perspective, Denver is growing faster than St. Louis, and it’s projected that it could become the largest city on the western side of the Mississippi in the near future.
The Relevance of the Mississippi River
When looking at the importance of the Mississippi River, it’s crucial to understand the geography of the United States. The Mississippi River is an integral part of the country’s infrastructure, creating a vital transportation and commerce corridor that flows through the heart of the continent. It is a major resource to the midwest region, providing transportation, irrigation, and recreation.
For years, it has also played an important role in the nation’s history, powering the economy of many states. From New Orleans to St. Paul, the river has been an important part of many communities along its route. This is why it’s essential to recognize the impact and importance of the Mississippi River on the development of the United States.
Economic Impact
The Mississippi River is rich in economic opportunities. It serves as a primary means of transportation for goods and people, providing a valuable resource for municipalities, industries, ports, and businesses located along its banks. It is an important part of the food industry, providing a key source of protein from the abundance of fish present in the river.
The river has also generated a number of opportunities for the energy industry, with its hydropower being an important form of renewable energy. Additionally, it offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and other watersports. These activities have made the river an important part of the tourism industry in the United States.
Environmental Impact
The Mississippi River is a critical part of the United States’ environment and ecology. Its presence has enabled the spread of life and nutrients throughout its course. This has helped improve the water quality and provide a valuable habitat for fish and other animals.
The river is also a key resource for the food industry, providing fish and other aquatic life for human consumption. It is also important for irrigation, helping to sustain farmland within its course. Finally, it provides a crucial source of energy for communities that rely on hydroelectric power. Its importance to the environment cannot be overstated.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an important part of the United States’ infrastructure and history. Spanning as far as 2,320 miles, it is both an economic and environmental powerhouse. Among the states along its course is the state of Missouri, where the largest city west of the Mississippi exists – St. Louis.
With a population of just over 300,000 people, St. Louis is an important economic hub for the Midwestern US. Denver, Colorado holds the distinction of being the second largest city west of the river, and it is expected to become the largest in the near future.
No matter which city takes the crown, it is important to remember that the Mississippi River plays an integral role in the development and wellbeing of the United States. It is a powerful and important resource for the country, and its importance cannot be overstated.
