The Mississippi River is undoubtedly one of the very most unique rivers that can be seen from a rather large area of the United States. Although it might be tempting to think of the Mississippi being visible from multiple states just by standing in one spot, that isn’t the case.
The Mississippi is the 2nd longest river in the United States and its origins can be traced back to the Rocky Mountains near the border of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and South Dakota. As the river meanders south of there, it forms the natural westward border between Iowa and Illinois, then begins to define the borders of Missouri and Arkansas. Further south, along the border of Tennessee and Mississippi, the river then broadens, joining the Gulf of Mexico.
From various points along the river, upwards of 10 different states can be seen, which makes it an interesting geographical feature. Depending on where someone is located, they can view various panoramas of states including Illinois, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
One of the most famous parts of the Mississippi River are the Mississippi River Levees. The first Mississippi River Levees were constructed in the 1870’s to protect the riverbanks from flooding, and to this day, they extend from Cairo, Illinois to the Gulf of Mexico. Since then, the levees have become a symbol of protection, as well as isolation.
The Mississippi-Missouri river includes a unique variety of wildlife which can easily be witnessed from along the banks, and from select areas in the states that border it. Aside from the incredible birds, reptiles and mammals, fishing within the area is an absolute delight, especially in the summer months when the waters become quite full with large fish.
The Mississippi River today is surrounded by a number of different industries, most notably the shipping of goods. Tankers full of oil, commercial barges, and recreational vessels all share the same waterways as they go up and down the river system, bringing wealth to towns and businesses located along the banks.
The Mississippi is also synonymous with American history, playing a significant role in the formation of the United States. During the 1700’s, the Mississippi played a key part in the exploration of the region, paving the way for the new nation.
The Stunning Scenery of the Mississippi
The beauty of the Mississippi River cannot be overstated. From its headwaters in Itasca, Minnesota, all the way to the coast, the scenery of the Mississippi River varies greatly, offering a range of immersive experiences for adventurers and explorers. In Minnesota and Wisconsin, marshes, bogs and other wetlands dot the landscape and the trees of the dense boreal forests may look familiar, but different. Further south, springtime brings forth vibrant colors of green and blue, as blooming wildflowers and trees, such as red and white oaks, line the riverside.
The South region of the Mississippi River valley is a special treat, with its bubbling creeks and winding rivers around majestic bluffs and rock formations, alongside lush forestry and lush, green fields. The breathtaking sunsets on the river and the distant sounds of the songbirds are inspiring to those lucky enough to experience it.
The iconic, towering pines and crashing waves of the Mississippi River Delta, nearing the Gulf of Mexico, provide the opportunity to explore and experience some of the best wildlife locations in the United States. Here, a host of wildlife lives alongside and within the network of waterways, from alligators and bottlenose dolphins to beavers, and even the occasional bald eagle.
The History of the Mississippi
The Mississippi River has been around since the beginning of every human habitation in North America. Native Americans used the river to fish and hunt, and it is believed that they discovered it more than 12,000 years ago. Some of the tribes living along the river centuries ago included the Ojibwe, Sioux, and the Cahokia, who were among the first to develop Indian settlements and villages along the riverside.
The French explorers in North America were the first non-natives to discover the Mississippi River in the 16th century. In their explorations, the French noticed how essential the Mississippi was for trading and commerce, as well as for its transportation advantages that connected different regions together. In 1699, Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville was the first to sail down the length of the river, eventually making it to the Gulf of Mexico.
As the 19th century arrived, American settlers started flowing in to pursue farming opportunities in what is now known as the Midwestern states. Mississippi and Ohio soon became major riverways, where steamboats crossed the continent all the way to the Pacific Ocean, acting as a major transportation system.
In the 21st century, the Mississippi River has taken on a more important role in American life, transforming it into a modern-day water highway. As such, it has become an important conduit of goods, as well as an attractor of recreation and pleasure, making it a vital asset to the United States’ economy.
The Role of the Mississippi in Modern Society
The importance of the Mississippi River in the lives of people living along its banks cannot be overstated. It provides a lifeline to the people in regards to food, drinking water, and other resources such as oil, natural gas, and biodiversity. The river’s unique landscape means that it can easily be adapted to the changing needs of local communities. It’s become a place for recreation, such as fishing and boating, and many laws have been put into place to ensure its continued success as a resource.
As times change and climate becomes an increasingly important factor in discussions about sustainability, the Mississippi can no longer be thought of in the same way. The riverside has now become the focus of scientists and environmentalists studying global warming, and the changing weather patterns that it has brought upon the world. Nevertheless, many still see the beauty of the Mississippi, and its position as a major recreational destination has not diminished.
Additionally, the Mississippi River has become a tourist destination, offering an array of adventurous activities and stunning campsites both along the riverside and in its interior. From the historic spots in New Orleans to the white sandy beaches and wooded marshes of the Delta, those looking for a unique experience can find it in and around the Mississippi River.
Environmental Concerns of the Mississippi
The Mississippi River is essential for the livelihood of many people, but it also faces a number of environmental concerns that need to be addressed. For instance, human activity has resulted in the contamination of two of its tributaries, the Illinois and Missouri rivers, which have caused some species to evolve and live alongside large concentrations of pollution.
In more recent times, the consequences of climate change have heavily impacted the Mississippi River’s environment. From coastal flooding and the displacement of species to increased water temperatures and floods, the region is vulnerable to these effects. Scientists and researchers have already observed an increase in the intensity and duration of floods, as well as more extreme temperatures in the region.
As a result, it’s become increasingly important to develop solutions that can help restore and protect the environment of the Mississippi River. Nevertheless, the river’s importance in the United States is undeniable, and it is likely to remain an important part of the nation’s history for many years to come.
Cultural Impact of the Mississippi
The Mississippi River has been a major influence on the cultural fabric of the United States, from its role in early exploration and settlement, to its presence in modern literature and art. The river and its accompanying landscape has long been an inspiration to writers, from Mark Twain’s depiction of Huck Finn, racing along the river’s banks, to William Faulkner’s exploration of life in the rural Mississippi towns. Even Ernest Hemingway’s famous work, The Old Man and the Sea, featured streams along the Mississippi River.
Today, the Mississippi River has been immortalized in the music of country legend Johnny Cash and in the literature of the Nobel Prize-winner, Toni Morrison. Even filmmakers have sought inspiration from the area, with key scenes in the iconic films The Graduate and Forrest Gump being shot along the Mississippi River.
The Mississippi River is an enduring symbol of America and its culture. It has had a fundamental role in the development of the United States, and its significance and importance to the nation will undoubtedly remain for many years in the future.
Conclusion
From its shady forests in the north to its bustling life in the south, the Mississippi River is undoubtedly one of the most historical and beautiful bodies of water in the United States. In addition to the dozens of states that can be seen in glimpses from the water, the river provides an abundance of life-sustaining resources, including food, fuel, and transportation. Furthermore, it has been a hugely influential part of American culture, becoming a part of our collective history over the course of centuries.
The Mississippi River is indeed an incredible asset, and one that should be cherished for generations to come.
