Southern Border of Illinois
The state of Illinois, located in the Midwestern region of the United States, has several borders. To the north, it is bounded by Wisconsin, to the east by Indiana, and to the west by Missouri and Iowa. But what about the southern border of Illinois? What natural feature marks this boundary? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question.
The Major Rivers of Illinois
Illinois is home to several major rivers that run through the state. These include the Illinois River, the Mississippi River, the Ohio River, and the Wabash River. Each of these rivers plays an important role in the geography, economy, and history of the state.
The Southernmost River
The southernmost river in Illinois is the Ohio River. This river forms the border between Illinois and Kentucky. The Ohio River is a major transportation route and is heavily used for commerce and shipping.
The Location of the Illinois River
The Illinois River is located in the central part of the state. It flows from west to east and empties into the Mississippi River near the city of Grafton.
The Beginning of the Illinois River
The Illinois River begins at the confluence of the Kankakee River and the Des Plaines River in northeastern Illinois. This point is located near the city of Joliet.
The Course of the Illinois River
The Illinois River flows for over 270 miles, passing through several major cities, including Peoria and Ottawa. The river is navigable for much of its length and is used for shipping and transportation.
The End of the Illinois River
The Illinois River empties into the Mississippi River near the city of Grafton in southwestern Illinois. The confluence of these two rivers is an important location for commerce and industry.
The Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the largest rivers in the United States. It runs from Minnesota to Louisiana and forms the western border of Illinois.
The Connection to the Illinois River
The Illinois River is a major tributary of the Mississippi River, and the two rivers are connected near the city of Grafton. This connection allows ships and barges to travel from the Illinois River to the Mississippi River and on to other parts of the country.
The Southern Border of Illinois
As mentioned earlier, the Ohio River serves as the southern border of Illinois. This river forms a natural boundary between Illinois and Kentucky, and it plays an important role in the economy and transportation of the region.
The Importance of Geography
The geography of Illinois, including its rivers, has played an important role in the state’s history and development. The rivers have provided transportation routes for commerce and industry, and they have shaped the landscape and ecology of the region.
Conclusion: A River as a Border
In conclusion, the southern border of Illinois is marked by the Ohio River. However, the Illinois River and the Mississippi River also play important roles in the geography and economy of the state. By understanding the significance of these rivers, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the natural features that shape our world.
