{"id":10063,"date":"2024-02-07T09:25:08","date_gmt":"2024-02-07T08:25:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/?p=10063"},"modified":"2024-02-07T09:25:08","modified_gmt":"2024-02-07T08:25:08","slug":"is-california-east-or-west-of-the-mississippi-river","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/is-california-east-or-west-of-the-mississippi-river\/","title":{"rendered":"Is California East Or West Of The Mississippi River"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you’re a California native, you may be surprised to hear that the Sunshine State isn’t the only one located in the American West. According to the US Census Bureau, California sits firmly on the western side of the Mississippi River divide. This divides the US into East and West, which is used to determine the nation’s time zones, television coverage and population statistics. <\/p>\n

The Mississippi River begins in the north of Minnesota and flows south, stretching 2,320 miles until it reaches the Gulf of Mexico. The river is remarkable in that it changed the nation’s landscape and economy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is well known for its distinct borders that divide the country into east and west. <\/p>\n

For centuries, the Mississippi River represented the westernmost point of the United States, with settlers moving away from the coast of the East Coast in pursuit of opportunity. California, which is located to the far west of the Mississippi River, was one of the last states to join the Union in 1850. Since then, the Golden State’s population has grown to the point where it is now the most populous state in the US. <\/p>\n

California is bordered by Oregon and Nevada to the north, Mexico to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. This strategically advantageous position has added to its prosperity throughout history, making California a sought-after destination for tourists, businesspeople and immigrants. As such, California has become one of the most diverse and vibrant states in the US. With its sunny climate, sandy beaches, stunning natural scenery and modern cities, it’s no wonder it’s so popular. <\/p>\n