Mississippi: The True Heart of the South
Mississippi is a state brimming with history, culture and natural splendor. Affectionately known as the "Magnolia State," Mississippi's charm lies in its rich heritage, from its Native American roots to the turbulent days of the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. As the birthplace of blues music, the state's cultural contributions have resonated worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of American artistry. With the mighty Mississippi River flowing through its heart, the state's landscape is a blend of picturesque farmlands, dense forests and inviting Gulf Coast beaches. Home to majestic antebellum mansions and charming small towns, Mississippi offers a glimpse into the nation's past, while embracing modernity through vibrant cities and thriving industries. Its hospitality is as warm as its climate, with friendly locals who exude a sense of community and pride in their unique identity.
Mississippi Quick Facts
The state nickname of Mississippi is the "Magnolia State," due to the abundance of magnolia trees found throughout the region. There are a total of 110 cities in Mississippi, 64 CDP's, 169 towns and 19 villages. The capital city of Mississippi is Jackson, which is also the largest city in the state with a population of 163,778. The state is named after the mighty Mississippi River, which flows along its western border. Mississippi became the 20th state to join the United States on December 10, 1817. Mississippi's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, with cotton, soybeans and poultry being some of the major agricultural products. Mississippi has been the home of renowned writers, including William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, and Richard Wright, who have left a lasting impact on American literature. Mississippi was home to the first ever heart and lung transplants back in 1964. Mississippi has been home to many famous residents, these include Oprah Winfrey, Elvis Presley, LeAnn Fimes, Faith Hill, Brandy, Britney Spears, Lance Bass and Eric Roberts.
The History of Mississippi
Long before European arrival, Mississippi was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Choctaw, Chickasaw and Natchez. In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers such as Hernando de Soto traversed the region. In 1699, French explorers led by Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville established the first European settlement, Fort Maurepas, near present-day Ocean Springs. After the United States gained independence, Mississippi became the 20th state to join the Union in 1817. Mississippi's reliance on slave labor led to its rapid economic growth, but it also intensified sectional tensions. Mississippi seceded from the Union in 1861 and joined the Confederacy during the Civil War. Following reconstruction, Mississippi enforced a system of racial segregation and discrimination known as Jim Crow laws, which persisted well into the 20th century. During the 1950s and 1960s, Mississippi became a focal point of the Civil Rights Movement, with events like the murder of Emmett Till and the Freedom Summer of 1964 drawing national attention to the struggle for civil rights. In recent decades, Mississippi has undergone significant changes and progress. The state has worked to confront its complex past and embrace a more inclusive and diverse society. It remains a hub for cultural preservation and boasts a rich heritage of music, literature, and culinary traditions.>/p>
The Geography of Mississippi
Mississippi's landscape features a mix of plains, rolling hills, forests, wetlands and a scenic coastline along the Gulf of Mexico. Mississippi is bordered by Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee. The western border of Mississippi is defined by the mighty Mississippi River, one of the most significant rivers in North America. To the south, Mississippi has a picturesque coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, which is known for its sandy beaches, barrier islands and bays. The southeastern part of the state is characterized by the Piney Woods region, dominated by pine forests and other hardwood trees. The northwest part of Mississippi is part of the Mississippi Delta, a flat alluvial plain formed by the deposits of the Mississippi River. Mississippi has an extensive network of rivers and lakes, contributing to its "Sportsman's Paradise" reputation. Notable rivers include the Yazoo River, Pearl River, and Tombigbee River, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities. The northeastern part of the state is known as the Hill Country, featuring scenic hills and valleys. This area offers stunning views and attracts visitors interested in exploring the state's natural beauty. The capital city, Jackson, is the largest urban center in Mississippi, serving as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the state. Other significant cities include Gulfport, Biloxi, Hattiesburg, and Tupelo.
Mississippi Relocation Guide
There are many good things about the state of Mississippi that should be highlighted for those people who are looking to relocate. When you look at a map of Mississippi cities, you will see some of the biggest cities are Jackson, Oxford, Starkville and then the coastal areas. Places like Biloxi and Gulfport have the best hotels and resorts, since they are the centers for travel in the state. Mississippi has the Gulf of Mexico to boast, as well as a liberal agenda on gambling. There are casinos all over the state, most notably in the coastal locations and in the north in Tunica.
Cities in Mississippi are fairly safe in most of its areas with crime rates that are about the same as the national average. One thing to note is that the schools there have struggled some, but there are still good options for those people who are willing to look hard enough. The job market has been hurting for the last few years, but that is more a function of the economy than anything else. Under normal circumstances, people can find work in the Mississippi, especially with its highly lucrative tourism industry powering everything. One item that redeems the state significantly is its low cost of living, even in the bigger cities.
