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The Midwest: A Region of Political and Geographic Diversity
Midwestern States: A Heartland of Contrasts
The Midwest, America's heartland, encompasses 12 states:
- Ohio
- Indiana
- Michigan
- Illinois
- Wisconsin
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- South Dakota
- North Dakota
- Minnesota
Political Divide
The Midwest is a politically divided region, with the Democratic Party holding sway in the Great Lakes region and the Republican Party dominating in the plains states.
Geographic Characteristics
Geographically, the Midwest is a vast region located between the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains, north of the Ohio River.
Its diverse landscape includes:
- Great Lakes
- Plains
- Forests
- Rivers
Cultural and Economic Importance
The Midwest is a hub of agriculture, industry, and culture:
- Leading producer of soybeans, corn, and wheat
- Home to major automobile and manufacturing centers
- Rich in cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and music venues
References
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Midwest
- U.S. Census Bureau: Midwest Population Projections
- Pew Research Center: The Political Landscape of Midwestern Swing States
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