Known for its vast farmlands, rich history, and fascinating culture, who wouldn’t want to visit Missouri? It’s also well-known for its links to some of the best-known and loved US litreature of all time. Instead of hopping on a jet and visiting Missouri, how about we all learn a bit more about this state together? Here are some fun facts about Missouri you’ll want to remember.
1. It was the 24th state of the US.
Missouri became the 24th state to join the United States on August 10, 1821. It is often referred to as the “Gateway to the West” due to its historical significance in westward expansion during the 19th century.
2. It is the Show-Me State!
Missouri is commonly known as the “Show-Me State.” This is a nickname that is said to reflect the people’s practical and sceptical nature – you can’t get one over on a Missouri native!
3. St. Louis is its largest city.
St. Louis is probably best known for its iconic Gateway Arch, commemorating the expansion of the United States. It’s estimated almost 300,000 people live in the city, which is still a smaller population than its neighbour, Kansas City.
4. Kansas City is in Missouri, not Kansas.
Weirdly enough, Kansas City isn’t in the state of the same name! This Missouri city is known for its barbecue, jazz heritage, and the Kansas City Chiefs football team.
5. It is also home to the Mississippi River.
The Mississippi River forms Missouri’s eastern border, while the Missouri River flows through the state. These rivers played a crucial role in the state’s history and development and are still important today.
6. It was the home of Mark Twain.
Missouri gave us the litreary talents of one Samuel Clemens, who was best known to millions by his pen name, Mark Twain. He was known for being one of America’s greatest authors. Twain’s celebrated novels, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” draw inspiration from his experiences in the state.
7. The Ozark Mountains can be found in the state.
The Ozark Mountains are an important part of Missouri. They cover a significant portion of southern Missouri, providing picturesque landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities.
8. It was Truman’s home.
Missouri was also famously the home of Harry S. Truman, the 33rd US President. Independence was specifically his hometown – and, oddly enough, he’s the only US President so far to have been born in the state.
9. It is known for the Missouri Compromise.
The Missouri Compromise, which took place in 1820, established the territory as a “slave state,” balancing Maine as a “free state.” This helped to identify Union states during the slave trade.
10. The Lewis and Clark expedition began in Missouri.
The Lewis and Clark Expedition, which took in the western portion of the United States, began in Missouri in 1804. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, available for you to explore for yourself, commemorates their journey.
11. You can find the source of Budweiser there!
The Anheuser-Busch Brewery, famous for producing Budweiser beer, is headquartered in St. Louis. It offers tours that showcase the brewing process.
12. Jefferson City is the capital.
Missouri’s capital city is Jefferson City, not Kansas City or St. Louis! The Missouri State Capitol building, with its distinctive dome, is a notable landmark.
13. Missouri is rife with important cave systems.
Missouri’s Meramec Caverns and Onondaga Cave State Park have unique geological formations and are open to the public – meaning if you’re the type of vacationer who enjoys getting deep into adventure – litreally – you’ve lots to explore here.
FAQs about Missouri
Is French still spoken in Missouri?
There are still a few who speak French in Missouri, however, most people in the state speak English as their primary language. However, it can’t hurt for you to learn both languages before you visit!
What is Missouri most famous for?
Missouri is best known for being the birthplace of ragtime, the blues, and Kansas City Jazz. It’s a highly musical state!
Is Missouri a nice place to live in?
Missouri is known for being a relatively affordable place to live, and is home to stunning landscapes – plus, there’s lots of music and sport to explore here, too.
Further reading:
https://facts.uk/tag/USA
https://www.visitmo.com/
https://mostateparks.com/
Do you know any interesting facts about Missouri? Share them in the comments below!