An Introduction to the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is the largest in the continent of North America. In terms of length, the Mississippi River is the longest river in America and the fourth longest in the world. It covers about half the country (40%) throughout North America.
This river originates from the lake called 'Itasca' and falls into the Gulf of Mexico. The name Mississippi comes from a Native American tribal language called 'Anishinaabe' or 'Ojibwe'. This river was called 'Misi-Zibi', which means - "Great River ''.
The Mississippi River
Mississippi River Facts
Some interesting facts about the Mississippi River are as follows:
This river flows entirely within the territory of the United States of America.
The Mississippi River has its source in Lake 'Itasca' in the state of Minnesota, from where it curves south.
This river travels about 2,320 miles and merges with the Gulf of Mexico to form a delta.
Several tributaries supply the Mississippi River, and its watershed covers 31 US states and part of southern Canada.
This river is the fourth longest river in the world and the tenth largest by volume of water per hour.
Native American tribal tribes along the Mississippi have lived for 10,000 years. Many lived a life of hunting and gambling, but some of them also lived in agrarian societies.
After European colonisation, many peoples of European descent settled here, and most of the native aboriginals were either driven out or killed.
For some time this great river remained an obstacle for Europeans to spread further west from here, but gradually it was used for boat traffic.
The Mississippi River pours so much fertile soil into its watershed through its flow that it is counted among the most fertile regions in the world.
This river is considered to be the boundary line between the eastern and western parts of America.
Solved Questions
Write any one major feature of the Mississippi river.
Ans: A major feature of the Mississippi River is that the total length of the Mississippi River is approximately 3734 Kilometres.
Name the fourth longest river in the world that flows through North America.
Ans: The Mississippi River is the fourth longest river in the world that flows through North America.
Summary
The Mississippi River is one of the most important rivers in the entire United States. This is because it is one of the longest rivers in all of North America, covering almost half the country. This river has contributed a lot to the development of culture and society in these places. Together with the Missouri River, they form the largest and most important river system in the world.
FAQs on Knowing Interesting Facts About the Mississippi River
1. State lesser known facts about the Mississippi river.
A few lesser known facts about the Mississippi river are listed below:
The Missouri River's journey begins at the point where the Madison, Jefferson and Gallatin rivers meet in Montana.
Several bridges have been built over the Mississippi River.
Water skiing was also invented on this river.
This river system is very important from a business point of view. Due to this, many cities situated along the river have developed, such as St. Louis, Kentucky and New Orleans etc.
2. How many sections is the Mississippi River divided into? Name them.
The Mississippi River is divided into two main sections: on the one hand, we have the Upper Mississippi and on the other, we have the Lower Mississippi.
The Upper Mississippi River
3. Which was the first bridge built on the Mississippi River?
The Eads Bridge was the first bridge built on the Mississippi river.
The Eads Bridge
