The Mississippi River
Mary O'Dell
Without question America's greatest river, the Mississippi, has made major contributions to the physical and economic growth of the nation. Coursing through the heart of America, it supplies water for the cities and industries that have located along its banks. In 1705 the first cargo was floated down the river from the Indian country around Wabash. This was a load of 15,000 bear and deer hides.. The Mississippi River is the main stem of a network of inland navigable waterways which form a system of about 12,350 miles in length.
The Mississippi River originates from Lake Itasca in Minnesota and flows southward for 2,320 miles before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. It passes through or forms the boundaries of ten states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
The river has played a significant role in the history and development of the United States. Native American tribes, such as the Cahokia and the Choctaw, relied on the river for transportation, trade, and sustenance. European explorers like Hernando de Soto and Jacques Marquette also utilized the river for their expeditions in the early 16th and 17th centuries.
The Mississippi River was a vital route for westward expansion in the 18th and 19th centuries. It served as a key transportation artery for the movement of people, goods, and ideas. Steamboats and flatboats carried settlers, traders, and agricultural produce along the river, connecting the east coast to the frontier territories. The river facilitated economic growth and the establishment of cities such as St. Louis, Memphis, and New Orleans.
In addition to transportation, the Mississippi River has provided resources for industries. Fertile soil along its banks has supported agriculture, particularly the cultivation of cotton, corn, soybeans, and rice. The river also has abundant fish and wildlife, which have sustained hunting and fishing industries.
However, the Mississippi River has also presented challenges and risks throughout its history. Frequent flooding has been a major concern, causing damage to property and infrastructure. Efforts to control and manage the river's flow through levees, dams, and flood control projects have been ongoing.
The health of the Mississippi River ecosystem has also been a focus of conservation efforts. Pollution from industrial and agricultural sources has threatened water quality and impacted the river's diverse plant and animal species. Conservation organizations, government agencies, and individuals have worked to restore and protect the river's ecosystem.
Today, the Mississippi River continues to be a significant transportation route, with barges carrying goods such as grain, coal, and petroleum along its waters. It also remains a popular destination for recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and birdwatching.
Overall, the Mississippi River's historical, economic, and environmental importance cannot be overstated. It remains a symbol of America's growth and resilience, and its impact on the nation's development is unparalleled.
The Mississippi River
Mary O'Dell
Without question America's greatest river, the Mississippi, has made major contributions to the physical and economic growth of the nation. Coursing through the heart of America, it supplies water for the cities and industries that have located along its banks. In 1705 the first cargo was floated down the river from the Indian country around Wabash. This was a load of 15,000 bear and deer hides.. The Mississippi River is the main stem of a network of inland navigable waterways which form a system of about 12,350 miles in length.Which best states how these two passages are different?
Responses
A The first passage is meant to be humorous, while the second passage is merely informative.The first passage is meant to be humorous, while the second passage is merely informative.
B The first passage tells a story, while the second passage presents information.The first passage tells a story, while the second passage presents information.
C The first passage is fiction, while the second passage is non-fiction.The first passage is fiction, while the second passage is non-fiction.
D The first passage is non-fiction, while the second passage is fiction.