Missouri, U.S. state in Midwestern United States
This midwestern state stretches across more than 180,000 square kilometers, featuring the Ozark Mountains in the south and plains to the north of the main river. The Mississippi forms the eastern boundary, while open prairies characterize the western part of the territory.
The compromise of 1820 paved the way for statehood in 1821, making this the twenty-fourth territory to join the union. Settlers later used the region as a launching point for westward expansion across the continent.
Regional influences from the Midwest and the South shape daily life, with blues clubs, live music venues, and Kansas City barbecue joints reflecting these traditions. Community gatherings and county fairs bring together rural habits and urban energy throughout the year.
Two major rivers cross the region and connect cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Jefferson City to each other. Interstate highways run north to south and east to west, making travel by car straightforward across the territory.
The territory includes 114 counties and one independent city, St. Louis, which stands alone without belonging to any county. Besides brewing and mining, vineyards along the river valleys produce wine in a tradition dating back more than a century.
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