Mississippi is a state of river landscapes, blues, Gulf Coast communities, and an American history that cannot be overlooked.
15 Essential Facts About Mississippi
1. Mississippi became the 20th state on December 10, 1817.
Mississippi became the 20th state on December 10, 1817.
2. Jackson is the capital and largest city.
Jackson is the capital and largest city.
3. The Magnolia State nickname honors its state flower.
The Magnolia State nickname honors its state flower.
4. The Mississippi River forms much of the western border.
The Mississippi River forms much of the western border.
5. The Delta is a fertile alluvial plain with a major musical legacy.
The Delta is a fertile alluvial plain with a major musical legacy.
6. Blues music developed in communities across the state.
Blues music developed in communities across the state.
7. The state motto is Virtute et armis: By valor and arms.
The state motto is Virtute et armis: By valor and arms.
8. Vicksburg was a pivotal Civil War site.
Vicksburg was a pivotal Civil War site.
9. Natchez preserves layers of river and plantation history.
Natchez preserves layers of river and plantation history.
10. The Gulf Coast gives Mississippi beaches and ports.
The Gulf Coast gives Mississippi beaches and ports.
11. The state has rich wetlands, forests, and wildlife.
The state has rich wetlands, forests, and wildlife.
12. Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo.
Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo.
13. The Mississippi River system shapes commerce and flood control.
The Mississippi River system shapes commerce and flood control.
14. The state’s civil-rights history is essential to the national story.
The state’s civil-rights history is essential to the national story.
15. Mississippi joins Southern culture, Black history, music, and river geography.
Mississippi joins Southern culture, Black history, music, and river geography.