"Virtute et armis" (Translation: "By valor and arms")
Adopted 1894.
Mississippi, affectionately known as the 'Magnolia State,' boasts a rich cultural history and a diverse economy deeply centered around the mighty Mississippi River. The fertile Delta region famously birthed legendary blues music, while the state remains a premier timber and catfish producer nationwide. It is truly a land of southern charm, enduring traditions, and remarkable natural beauty for all.
Mississippi officially joined the United States on December 10, 1817, as the 20th state, solidifying the nation’s westward expansion. This historic entry reflected growing political and economic interests within the burgeoning region and contributed greatly to the expanding American footprint. The state played a crucial role in shaping the early identity of the American South during several formative years.
Jackson
Population: ~143,000The state capital and largest city, a major cultural and economic center in the Deep South.
Gulfport
Population: ~72,000A major port city on the Gulf Coast, known for its beaches and marine research.
Southaven
Population: ~54,000A rapidly growing suburb of Memphis, Tennessee, known for its shopping and entertainment.
Hattiesburg
Population: ~48,000Home to the University of Southern Mississippi, a center for education and healthcare.
Biloxi
Population: ~46,000Known for its casinos, historic lighthouse, and vibrant Gulf Coast culture.
Region: South
- Mississippi is home to over two thousand miles of navigable waterways used for essential shipping.
- The state's diverse wildlife include alligators and black bears living within unique southern ecological systems.
- Mississippi is the only state named after a river that remains critical for national trade.