Central Illinois, Geographic region in Illinois, United States.
Central Illinois is a region spanning the middle third of the state, encompassing about 45 counties across its landscape. The area combines small towns, mid-sized cities, and broad farming lands that shape the character of the place.
The region played a key role in American history through Abraham Lincoln, who lived in Springfield and began his political career in New Salem. These two places form important reference points for the area's historical importance.
People here connect deeply with farming and rural life as part of their identity. Local communities gather regularly at farmers markets and celebrate harvest festivals that keep agricultural traditions and skills alive.
The region is accessible through six interstate highways, with three commercial airports available for longer trips. Multiple rail lines and navigable rivers also offer different ways to travel through the area.
Douglas County in this area is remarkably flat, with only about 100 feet (30 meters) of elevation change across the entire county. This extreme flatness makes the landscape distinctly different from many other parts of the country.
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