Mississippi is the 20^th state in the USA; it became a state on December 10, 1817.

Mississippi’s name is derived from an Algonquian Indian term for “big river.” The state of Mississippi is entirely composed of lowlands.

About 55% of the land area of Mississippi is covered with forests. It has a humid subtropical climate with long summers and short, mild winters.

Mississippi's coast and its inland rivers and lakes, provide ample opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating.