Missouri: Show Me State

Missouri, in the Midwest, bridges North and South, East and West, with Kansas City and St. Louis as major cities on opposite ends. Known as the "Show Me State" for alleged skepticism and demand for proof, Missouri has diverse geography and culture.

St. Louis features the Gateway Arch symbolizing westward expansion, while Kansas City is famous for barbecue and jazz. Jefferson City is the capital. The Ozarks offer rolling hills, caves, and recreational lakes. The Mississippi and Missouri Rivers border the state. Mark Twain grew up in Hannibal, inspiring Tom Sawyer. Springfield is in the southwest.

Missouri's economy includes agriculture, aerospace (Boeing), automotive manufacturing, brewing (Anheuser-Busch), and logistics. The state has political importance as a bellwether (historically picked presidential winners). Missouri has both urban sophistication and rural agriculture. Branson is a country music tourism destination. The state blends Midwestern and Southern cultures. Kansas City and St. Louis define different cultural spheres within the state.