Origins
The Mississippi River has been around since before the days of European settlement. It is located in the central United States and has been considered one of the most important rivers in American history. It is also considered one of the most significant rivers in North America as well as the world. The Mississippi River starts out at a very small meandering stream located in Itasca State Park in Minnesota. This small stream is known as Itasca Lake, and it is situated 1,475 feet above sea level. From here, the process of the journey begins and the river continues to grow in size.
Lands
As it winds its way through the American Midwest, it runs through ten different states; Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana. Among these states lies an impressive variety of wetlands, floodplains, and highlands. In fact, some of the most important and largest wetlands in North America are found in the Mississippi watershed. It is said that the Mississippi contributes to nearly half of the wetlands in the lower 48 states and provides feeding areas, nesting areas and spawning grounds for a variety of animals from bald eagles to catfish.
Racism in the Waters
The Mississippi River and its tributaries have a long and tragic history for African Americans. Many enslaved African Americans travelled the Mississippi River on their way to the Deep South to a life of slavery. Similarly, African Americans were denied access to riverboats on the Mississippi due to Jim Crow laws. The river also witnessed a great deal of violence, such as the 1955 Mississippi Burning killings, when a white mob burned to death three civil rights workers who were investigating a church bombing.
Economic Use
The Mississippi River’s economic importance is unmatched by any other river in the United States. A great number of businesses rely on the river’s shipping lanes, such as industries that sell commodities, grains and petroleum products. In addition, the river is important for the recreational industry and provides activities such as boating, fishing, and sightseeing. Many of the cities and towns throughout the region, such as St. Louis, Memphis and Vicksburg, rely on the river for their livelihood.
Environmental Impacts
The Mississippi River has seen its fair share of environmental issues. For example, water pollution is a major concern, as the runoff from the numerous farms and factories along the river results in an accumulation of pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorus. These pollutants can lead to the growth of toxic algae blooms, impeding the river’s recreational activities and wildlife habitats. In addition, water level fluctuations, caused by dams and floods, have caused extensive erosion of the river’s banks, resulting in decrease of habitats for wildlife.
Conservation Efforts
In order to lessen the impact of human activities along the Mississippi River, various conservation efforts have been put into place, such as clean-up initiatives and the implementation of green infrastructure. Additionally, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is working to restore wetlands, restore fish migration patterns, and rebuild sections of the river that were stripped of vegetation due to the impacts of agriculture and industry. The conservation of the Mississippi River is critical for supporting a healthy ecosystem and economic activity in the region.
Cultural Significance
The Mississippi River has been a cultural touchstone in America for centuries. It has been immortalized in books, films, music, and art. It has been the backdrop of major historical events and the theater of economic activity. The river has inspired a unique culture and identity around the Great Mississippi Delta region, and it offers a glimpse of the natural beauty of America’s Midwest.
Trade Impact
The Mississippi River has an immense impact on global trade and the US economy. It is a major shipping route for agricultural products, oil, chemicals and other cargo, and it’s been a driving force for the advancement of America’s infrastructure for centuries. Today, the Mississippi is home to ports, river terminals, and locks that handle nearly 600 million tons of cargo worth $140 billion annually.
Recreational Use
The Mississippi River is a popular destination for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and sightseeing. Fishing is a particularly popular activity, and anglers often come to the river in search of certain varieties such as smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and white bass. Sightseeing along the river is also popular, as visitors can take in the natural beauty and scenic views.
Wildlife
The Mississippi River provides a home for a diverse array of wildlife, ranging from fish and birds to reptiles and mammals. Birds such as bald eagles and ospreys are common sightings along the river, while white-tailed deer, black bears, and bobcats roam the nearby land. Additionally, ducks, geese, and other waterfowl can often be seen on the Mississippi. The river provides critical food and shelter for its wildlife population, making it a vital resource in the Midwest.
