Iowa

Iowa is a landlocked state in the Midwestern United States. It is bordered by Minnesota to the north, Wisconsin and Illinois to the east across the Mississippi River, Missouri to the south, and Nebraska and South Dakota to the west. The state’s capital and largest city is Des Moines. With an area of about 56,000 square miles, Iowa comprises rolling prairies, fertile farmland, and several river valleys; the western part features the Loess Hills, while the eastern border runs along the Mississippi River.

Iowa was originally inhabited by Native American peoples, including the Santee Sioux and Ioway communities. European exploration began in the 17th century, and the area was part of the Louisiana Purchase. It became Iowa Territory in 1838 and achieved statehood in 1846. Herbert Hoover, the 31st U.S. president, was born in West Branch, Iowa.

Iowa has an economy dominated by agriculture, with corn and soybeans among its main crops and a significant hog and pork industry. The state also has manufacturing, finance, and biotechnology sectors, centered in Des Moines and Ames. Major farm-and-food companies operate there, and ethanol production is common in rural areas.

Iowa's government is a constitutional state government with a governor, a bicameral General Assembly, and a judiciary. The state elects two U.S. senators and multiple representatives. The population is mostly White, with growing Hispanic and other communities; urban areas include Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Iowa City, and Ames.

Iowa is known for its colleges and universities, including the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Northern Iowa. Cultural attractions include the Iowa State Fair; the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville; and numerous museums, parks, and historic sites. The state experiences a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers and occasional severe weather.