Population: 2 978.512 thousand people (2011)
Area: 125443.0 sq. km
Located in the south of the United States and being the 20th state of Mississippi, it occupies a worthy place in the state of North America. The capital Jackson is one of its major cities. The Mississippi shares a common border with Tennessee to the north, Arkansas to the northwest, Alabama to the east, and Louisiana to the southwest. The southern lands are washed by the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The origin of the state’s name is associated with the Mississippi River, which flows near its western borders.
In 1540, a Spanish expedition led by Hernando de Soto arrived to explore these places. They represented the first Europeans in Indian lands. Their goal was not only to familiarize themselves with new territories, but also to form colonies for permanent settlement and residence.
The symbolic tree of the state of Mississippi is the magnolia, the flower is the flowers of coreopsis and magnolia, the animal world is the red fox, the white-tailed bear and the bottlenose dolphin is the bottlenose dolphin, and the toy is the teddy bear. The Carolina duck and the mockingbird are emblematic birds of the Mississippi. The symbol of insects is the industrious honey bee.
The territory of Mississippi became part of the new state – the United States in the middle of winter 1817. The main landform of the state is a slightly hilly plain. Between the full-flowing Mississippi River and the Yazoo, its left tributary, lies a flat and low-lying territory, which is framed on the eastern part by the Delta Ridge. The local lands are fertile chernozem soils, giving a rich harvest. In addition to the northeast, hot and humid summers prevail throughout the state. Winters are generally warm with little snow. The major river is the Mississippi and its tributaries, the Big Black and the Yazoo.
Pine forests grow on most of the land, and deciduous forests grow in the north. In addition, there are seven national parks here. The Mississippi Territory is subject to the arrival of a tornado (hurricane) from the Gulf of Mexico. Most often, the southern lands suffer from its invasion.
JACKSON
Population: 173.514 thousand people (2010)
Area: 276.7 sq. km
Founded: 1822
Time zone: UTC-6, summer UTC-5
Altitude: 85 m
Jackson is both the largest city and the capital of Mississippi. It is located on the Pearl River in the western part of the state. The Ross Barnet Reservoir, north of Jackson, supplies the city with water and serves as a recreational area for citizens. Jackson is located in the crater of an ancient volcano, which died out 65 million years ago and rests under the city’s stadium at a depth of about 900 meters underground.
Before the colonization of the state by Europeans, the Choctaw tribes lived here. The expedition of Hernan de Soto penetrated here in 1540, but only in 1820 did a settled settlement of colonists appear, called Parkville. In 1821, in connection with the selection of a site for the new capital of the Mississippi, the commission chose Parkville, as it had all the necessary conditions, including the location on the important Natchese Trace. The capital was moved here and renamed in honor of General Jackson, the future 7th President of the United States.
The city, despite its capital status, grew slowly. However, in the 1930s, deposits of natural gas and oil were discovered in the area, which brought Jackson to the forefront of the region’s economy. By the end of the 1950s, resources were exhausted, but the city authorities managed to reorient the economy. In the 1960s and 70s, the city was swept by a movement to abolish racial segregation. Jackson’s African Americans now make up about 80% of the population.
Jackson is rich in attractions that allow you to fill your leisure time with a variety of pastimes. The city has museums, art centers, theaters, old mansions that have survived to this day after the battles of the Civil War, beautiful administrative buildings, fountains, park areas and sports arenas.
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is a city with a history deeply rooted in its role as a transportation and education hub in the southeastern United States. The city’s development is marked by its strategic location, economic diversification, and contributions to education and culture. Additionally, the climate in Hattiesburg reflects the region’s southern location, with warm temperatures and a humid subtropical climate.
The history of Hattiesburg dates back to the mid-19th century when Captain William H. Hardy established a railroad station in the area in 1882. The location became known as Hattiesburg, named after Hardy’s wife, Hattie. The railroad connection played a pivotal role in the city’s growth, facilitating trade and transportation of goods in the region.
Hattiesburg’s economy diversified with the establishment of the timber and lumber industry in the late 19th century. The abundant pine forests in the surrounding area contributed to the city’s emergence as a major lumber center. The growth of the lumber industry, coupled with the expansion of the railroads, spurred economic development and population growth.
The city continued to evolve in the early 20th century with the establishment of Camp Shelby, a military training facility, during World War I. Camp Shelby’s presence brought economic activity and employment opportunities to Hattiesburg, further contributing to its growth.
According to Shoe-Wiki, Hattiesburg’s climate is classified as humid subtropical, typical of the southeastern United States. Summers are hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (30-35°C). Winters are mild, with average high temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10-20°C). The region experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with an increased likelihood of thunderstorms, especially in the warmer months.
The climate influences the outdoor activities enjoyed by Hattiesburg residents. The city is surrounded by the natural beauty of southern Mississippi, with opportunities for outdoor recreation in parks, nature reserves, and nearby waterways. The Longleaf Trace, a 41-mile rail-to-trail conversion, provides a scenic route for walking, running, and biking.
Hattiesburg’s commitment to education is exemplified by the presence of the University of Southern Mississippi (USM), founded in 1910. The university has grown to become a major institution, offering a diverse range of academic programs and contributing to the cultural and intellectual vibrancy of the city. USM’s contributions to research, arts, and athletics further enhance Hattiesburg’s profile as an educational hub.
Cultural events and festivals add to the city’s dynamic atmosphere. The Historic Hattiesburg Downtown Association promotes events like the Live at Five concert series, fostering community engagement and showcasing local talent. The Hattiesburg Arts Council and the Hattiesburg Symphony Orchestra contribute to the city’s cultural richness, offering opportunities for residents to engage in the arts.
Hattiesburg has undergone urban revitalization efforts in recent years, with a focus on enhancing the downtown area. The Historic Hattiesburg Downtown Association has played a key role in preserving the city’s historic architecture and promoting economic development. The city’s historic districts, including neighborhoods like Oaklawn and Parkhaven, showcase a mix of architectural styles from different eras.
Economic diversification has been a key focus for Hattiesburg, with the healthcare, finance, and manufacturing sectors playing significant roles. The city’s support for small businesses and entrepreneurship has contributed to a diverse economic landscape.
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, stands as a city with a dynamic history rooted in transportation, economic diversification, and education. From its beginnings as a railroad town to its current status as a center for culture, education, and business in southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg reflects the resilience and adaptability of cities in the southeastern United States. The city’s warm and humid climate adds to the unique experiences enjoyed by its residents and makes Hattiesburg an inviting and distinctive community in the heart of the Deep South.
