Map of Mississippi and Flag | Outline, Counties, Cities and Road Map
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Many people assume that Mississippi is nothing but rural land that is overrun by uneducated rednecks, but these things are exaggerated stereotypes. If you are thinking about moving to or visiting the Magnolia State, you are probably wondering what Mississippi is really like.
In terms of the basics, Mississippi is a southern state. It is a decent place to live due to how low the cost of living is, but the job market is not great, and you must be prepared for harsh weather. This state has a very distinct southern culture, but Mississippi is most famous for being the birthplace of blues music.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the Magnolia State before you decide to head out and see it for yourself.
Where Is Mississippi on the Map?
Mississippi is located in the southern region of the United States. It shares a border with Alabama to the east, Tennessee in the north, and the Tennessee River in the northeast.
The Mississippi and Pearl Rivers also separate Mississippi from Arkansas and Louisiana to the west and in the south, respectively.
Mississippi is one of many southern and midwestern states in an area that is called “The Bible Belt,” as Christianity, specifically Protestantism, has a strong influence on political and social practices.
Mississippi is also a part of the “Dixie” region, which is a common nickname for the states that formed the Confederacy during the Civil War.
Is Mississippi a Good Place to Live?
Overall, Mississippi is a decent place to live if you have financial security.
While the cost of living in the Magnolia State is low, about fifteen percent below the national average, wages are also low, and the job market is fairly limited. This makes Mississippi a good place to move after retiring, though, especially since property taxes are very low, as well.
There is some variety to the inhabitable areas of Mississippi, so you have options for what sort of lifestyle you wish to settle into. You will not be “doomed to farming” if you choose to come here.
While there are plenty of rural spots and quaint farmlands, the Magnolia State also has some cities that offer the perks of urban living, like Jackson in the south.
Before you move to Mississippi, you need to be prepared to deal with the weather. Typically, the days here are hot and humid at best, although winters are short and mild, which is great for people who vastly prefer the heat to the cold.
Mississippi also experiences hurricanes and tornadoes sometimes, so you should probably look into getting home insurance and learning hurricane and tornado safety procedures prior to moving here.
What Is Mississippi Most Famous For?
Mississippi is steeped in the history of America’s Civil War, which is certainly one of the things this state is well known for. As such, it comes as no surprise that the Magnolia State has been named the birthplace of blues music, which is currently the state’s most notable achievement.
Many elements of blues music were derived from the songs of Africa. Slaves, many of whom were captives from Africa, sang these songs on the plantations while they worked. The descendants of these slaves, African American citizens, created the blues genre, which has been most firmly traced to the former plantations of Mississippi.
Before the creation of the blues, the Mississippi River was the site of several important Civil War battles, and there are several monuments, sites, and memorials that attract history buffs to Mississippi all year round.
What Are Some Interesting Mississippi Flag Facts?
Mississippi officially adopted a new state flag quite recently, in early January 2021. The new flag has a red, blue, and gold background with a circle of stars and a magnolia, the state’s nickname sake, in the center. “In God We Trust,” America’s motto, completes the bottom of the circle.
The old flag was voted out in November 2020. Prior to this, Mississippi was the last state to still have the Confederate flag incorporated into their state flag. The old flag had the Confederate flag design in the top right corner, and it was the official state flag for 126 years.
A strong majority of voters pushed for the new design, and the old one has been recognized as a sort of “pro-slavery” symbol.
What Is the Best City to Live in in Mississippi?
Most residents and data experts agree that Madison is the best city in Mississippi to live in. This city offers a good blend of rural and urban culture, as it is technically a suburb of Jackson, Mississippi’s capital.
Madison is one of the richest areas in the state, and the economy here is much better than that of the state average. The quality of public schools in Madison are some of the highest in all of Mississippi, as well. This city has been named the best one to raise a family in out of the entire state.
Also, not only does Madison have some of the lowest crime rates in the Magnolia State, but in the United States as a whole.
What Are the Best Places to Visit in Mississippi?
The best places to visit in Mississippi are the ones that showcase what this state is most famous for: Clarksdale, Natchez, and Vicksburg. Biloxi is also an excellent destination for those who love the beach or being out on the water.
Clarksdale is the hub of the blues scene on the Delta. You can often catch famous musicians performing here, and there are plenty of historical markers to discover as you explore the city. The Delta Blues Museum also provides a lot of historical context.
Natchez and Vicksburg are popular sites for anyone interested in Civil War history. Natchez has preserved several plantation style homes, and Vicksburg was the site of a long battle. Both locations provide a glimpse into the past, aided by scenic carriage rides and tours.
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