Springfield (The Simpsons)

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Springfield is a fictional town in the American animated sitcom The Simpsons, which serves as its main setting. A mid-sized town in an undetermined state of the United States, Springfield acts as a complete universe in which characters can explore the issues faced by modern society. The geography of the town and its surroundings are flexible, changing to address whatever an episode's plot calls for.

Overview

Springfield was founded by Jebediah Springfield (a cover identity for notorious pirate Hans Sprungfeld) who, after misinterpreting a passage in the Bible, left Maryland (which may be a small clue as to where Springfield is located) trying to find "New Sodom." Due to a mix-up at a crossroads, he ended up in what is now Springfield. The town's history is rich with quirky events and personalities that mirror the complex issues of American history and society.

The town features a vast array of amenities and services, including the Nuclear Power Plant where Homer Simpson, the show's protagonist, works. It has a school, a university, a museum, a mall, and many other staples of American town life. Springfield's economy seems to be supported by a variety of industries, from the power plant to Krusty the Clown's brand-based products.

Geography

The geography of Springfield is notably flexible; it can have mountains, deserts, a gorge, or whatever the episode's plot may require. The town's location in the United States is intentionally vague and contradictory; it is a running joke throughout the series that the location of Springfield is unidentifiable.

Notable Locations

• Springfield Elementary School - The school that Bart Simpson and Lisa Simpson attend.
• Moe's Tavern - A local bar owned by Moe Szyslak, a frequent hangout for Homer Simpson and his friends.
• Springfield Nuclear Power Plant - The primary source of Springfield's power, owned by Mr. Burns.
• Kwik-E-Mart - A convenience store run by Apu Nahasapeemapetilon.
• Springfield Police Department - Headed by Chief Wiggum, often depicted as incompetent.

Culture

Springfield's culture is a pastiche of American society. The town celebrates various holidays, has a diverse population, and its citizens often engage in community events. Television and media play a significant role in the lives of the townspeople, with channels like Channel 6 featuring heavily in certain episodes.

Politics and Government

The town is run by Mayor Quimby, a caricature of American politicians who is often involved in scandals and corruption. The town has a police department, a fire department, and other typical municipal services, though they are frequently shown to be inefficient or corrupt.

In Popular Culture

Springfield has become an iconic setting in American television, symbolizing the everytown of American culture. It has been analyzed in academic circles for its reflections on society and has entered the cultural lexicon as a symbol of suburban America.

See Also

• The Simpsons
• Homer Simpson
• Marge Simpson
• Bart Simpson
• Lisa Simpson
• Maggie Simpson