Missouri

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Missouri is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is bordered by Iowa to the north, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee to the east, Arkansas to the south, and Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska to the west. The Missouri and Mississippi rivers are prominent features in the state, with the Missouri River bisecting the state and the Mississippi forming its eastern boundary.

The state's largest city is Kansas City, and its capital is Jefferson City. St. Louis is another major metropolitan area, located along the Mississippi River. Missouri became the 24th state to join the Union on August 10, 1821, as part of the Missouri Compromise, which allowed it to enter as a slave state while Maine entered as a free state, maintaining the balance between slave and free states in the Union.

Missouri played a significant role during the American Civil War, as it was a border state with both Union and Confederate sympathizers. It was a site of numerous battles and skirmishes during the war. After the war, Missouri saw rapid growth in its economy and infrastructure, partly due to its central location and the development of transportation networks, including railroads and river transport.

The state’s economy is diverse, with major industries including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Missouri is known for its production of soybeans, corn, and livestock. Additionally, aerospace and automotive industries have significant presences in the state, with companies such as Boeing having large operations there.

Missouri is home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Missouri, which has campuses in Columbia, Kansas City, and St. Louis. The state also has a rich cultural history, with connections to figures like Mark Twain, who was born in Florida, Missouri, and President Harry S. Truman, from Independence.

Tourism in Missouri is also notable, with attractions like the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Lake of the Ozarks, and Branson, which is known for its live entertainment and family-friendly attractions.