Southern Illinois

Southern Illinois
Southern Illinois
Region
	Collage of Southern Illinois Collage of Southern Illinois
	Nickname(s): Little Egypt
	Motto(s): "Where Illinois Begins"
	Coordinates: Lua error in Module:ISO_3166 at line 278: attempt to index a boolean value.
Country	United States
State	Illinois
Established	1809
Area
• Total	18,291 sq mi (47,370 km2)
Population
• Total	1,235,000
• Density	67.5/sq mi (26.1/km2)
Time zone	UTC-6 (CST)
• Summer (DST)	UTC-5 (CDT)
Website	www.southernillinois.com

Southern Illinois is a region located in the southern part of the state of Illinois, United States. It is known for its unique culture, natural beauty, and historical significance. The region is often referred to as "Little Egypt" due to its resemblance to the Nile Delta region in Egypt. Southern Illinois is where Illinois begins, both geographically and historically.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Southern Illinois covers an area of approximately 18,291 square miles, making it the largest region in the state. It is bordered by the Mississippi River to the west, the Ohio River to the south, and the Wabash River to the east. The region is characterized by rolling hills, fertile farmland, and dense forests. It is home to several state parks and natural areas, including the Shawnee National Forest and Giant City State Park.

History[edit | edit source]

Southern Illinois has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. The region was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Illinois, Shawnee, and Miami, before European settlers arrived. In the early 1800s, the area became a gateway for settlers moving westward, earning it the nickname "Little Egypt." The region played a significant role in the Civil War, with several important battles and military camps located in the area.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Southern Illinois is diverse and includes industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The region is known for its production of corn, soybeans, and livestock. It is also home to several major universities and colleges, including Southern Illinois University Carbondale and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Tourism is another important sector, with visitors attracted to the region's natural beauty, historic sites, and recreational opportunities.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Southern Illinois has a unique culture that blends elements of the Midwest, the South, and the Ozarks. The region is known for its hospitality, friendliness, and strong sense of community. It is home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. The region also hosts several annual festivals and events, including the Du Quoin State Fair and the Southern Illinois Music Festival.

Notable Attractions[edit | edit source]

Southern Illinois offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. Some of the notable attractions include:

Shawnee National Forest: A vast forested area with scenic trails, waterfalls, and rock formations.
Giant City State Park: A popular park known for its unique rock formations and hiking trails.
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the remains of an ancient Native American city.
Garden of the Gods: A stunning rock formation in the Shawnee National Forest.
Lincoln-Douglas Debates Museum: A museum dedicated to the historic debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas.

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

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