State of Arkansas: founding history and attractions. State of Arkansas: founding history and attractions Arkansas Rice Fields

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Tanya Marchant

Arkansas

In the original: Arkansas
Capital: Little Rock ( Little Rock)
Joined the United States: June 15, 1836
Square: 137.8 thousand sq. km
Population: 2.889 thousand people (July 2009)
Largest cities: Little Rock, Fort Smith, North Little Rock, Fayetteville, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, Springdale, Conway, Rogers, Hot Springs.

Arkansas is one of the southwest central states as it borders the midwestern, western and southern states.

The southwestern lands of the state, with its cattle farms and sunflower fields, are located in the wild west prairie region. The dairy farms and orchards of northwest Arkansas are located in the so-called Corn Belt, its cotton plantations along the banks of the Mississippi River reminiscent of the Deep South.

Arkansas is rich in natural water resources, pristine forests and mineral resources, including oil, gas and many minerals.

As a separate, twenty-fifth state, Arkansas became part of the United States on June 15, 1836.

Before 1950, Arkansas was primarily an agricultural state. Its inhabitants were mainly engaged in farming, but this occupation did not bring huge incomes, and many left it, rushing to other lands in search of better life. Over time, Arkansas began to systematically develop its manufacturing industry and transportation.

At the end of 1950, the number of factories in the state exceeded the number of farms, thus the manufacturing industry began to dominate the economy over agriculture. In 1990, Arkansas was rightfully considered a state dominated by manufacturing (light industry) and various services.

In addition, one of the most important sectors of the economy is tourism.

Arkansas' strong economic balance and favorable business opportunities in the state have given Arkansas its official name as the "Land of Opportunity." Arkansas is also called the Kingdom of Nature because its beautiful landscapes, forests, rivers and lakes attract many tourists every year.

State name history

Many of the names and place names of the state came from the languages ​​of travelers and explorers of these lands - from the languages ​​of the native Indians, Spanish, French and American settlers, who gave their names to the mountains, forests, rivers and cities of the state.

So Arkan-sa (ARkan-SAW) or Ar-kansas? (Ar-KANSAS)?

The word "Arkansas" comes from the days of French settlers.

At the time of the first exploration of these lands, Quapah Indians lived in the west of the Mississippi River and north of the Arkansas River. The Kwapa or U-gakw-pa (OO-GAQ-PA) were also called UGAKHOPAG, which meant "people living in the lower reaches of the stream."

The Indians who lived in the Ohio Valley, speaking the language of the Algonquin tribe, called them "Arkansas lands" or "south wind".

Therefore, the name of the state was pronounced differently in different historical times. In the Journal of 1673 the Indian word was written as AKANSEA. On the map of LaSalle, a few years later, the same word was changed to ACANSA. This map was based on the voyages of La Harpe in 1718-1722, who explored the Arkansas River and the LES AKANSAS Indians who lived along its shores. In 1811, Captain Zebulon Pike named the area ARKANSAW in his exploration report.

During the first days of Arkansas statehood, U.S. senators were divided on the correct pronunciation of the state's name. Some senators introduced themselves to the Senate as "Senator from Arkans" ("ARkanSAW"), others as "Senator from Arkansas" ("Ar-KANSAS").

In 1881, the General Assembly of States passed a resolution that decided that the name of this state should be written as "Arkansas" but pronounced as "Arkansaw".

Thus, the pronunciation of the name of this state was supposed to forever cement the memory of the Indians who were the original owners of these lands, as well as perpetuate the memory of the first French explorers of Arkansas.

Arkansas Rice Fields

Arkansas produces 2/5 of the US rice crop.

The state's humid climate and well-fertilized soils provide excellent sources of rich harvests. There are rich, extensive rice fields here.

Cuajita Mountains

In western Arkansas lie the Ouachita Mountains, covered with pine forests. Guests of the state - tourists, traveling through the Cuajita mountains, see beautiful mountain streams and picturesque waterfalls, one of which is Cedar Falls.

In 1951, construction was completed on the Bull Shoals Dam, which was built on the White River in the Ozark Mountains.

Hydroelectric power accounts for only a small portion of Arkansas' energy facilities. Among Arkansas' energy facilities, coal-burning plants and nuclear power plants are the predominant sources of the state's electricity.

Bull Shoals Lake

In northern Arkansas rises the Ozark Plateau, an area of ​​steep, rugged mountains, hills and valleys rich in farming.

After the construction of the Bull Shoals dam, a lake arose, which was named: it arose Bull Shoals Lake. Here, on a lake in the Ozak Mountains, tourists and Arkansas residents relax in their river “houses on the water.”

Mississippi River

The Mississippi River, which is the eastern border of the state, intertwines with many of the rivers of Arkansas itself.

In the past, early colonists used this river as transport route much more often than railways and land roads. And only towards the end of 1800 railways still prevailed over water routes of movement.

However, Arkansas waterways are still an integral part of the US transportation system.

Pea Ridge National Military Park

In northwest Arkansas is national park Pea Ridge National Military Park. It was founded on the site of the first battle of the American Civil War.

In 1862, Union troops defeated the Confederate army and then quickly marched south and captured the city of Little Rock. After which the Confederation established new capital in the city of Washington, located in southwest Arkansas. Thus, Arkansas had two governments on its territory until the very end of the war in 1865 - Union and Confederate.

The national park-museum tells about the times Civil War In the states, the park is based on the site of the first military hospital, established at the Elkhorn Tavern during the Battle of Pea Ridge.

State Capitol

The government building, the Arkansas State Capitol, was built in 1911 in the state capital of Little Rock.

The administrative authorities of Arkansas received the greatest attention and respect in 1992, when the former governor of the state, Bill Clinton, was elected President of the United States of America.

Smith Art Center

Smith Art Center - historical museum and the community of art theater - is part of the national historical complex Fort Smith. Located in western Arkansas.

The historical complex contains many interesting documents of the history of the city of Fort Smith, founded in 1817.

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Every self-respecting American state necessarily has some kind of motto, some kind of nickname that is known to literally everyone. Arkansas has been nicknamed the "natural state." Once upon a time it was just a publicity stunt designed to attract investors and tourists. The move was successful, and the name stuck and stayed that way. Well, the motto, of course, is unofficial, says: “Why do we need this literacy?” Yes, self-irony is held in high esteem here, even at the national level. The fact is that the most worst schools Arkansas ones are recognized in the states.

A little history

As in other lands across the American continent, before the arrival of white people, Indians lived in the territory where the state of Arkansas is located today. They hunted, fought among themselves, and made agreements. In general, they behaved as Indians should behave. Until the Spaniards arrived in the sixteenth century. The Spaniards declared that they were now the masters here. However, not everyone agreed with this. And for some reason the French disagreed most of all. The French said that they liked these lands and would live here.

And while the Spaniards were arguing with the French, the indigenous Indians lived quite calmly on their land. After all, due to disputes over the territory and the not fully clarified question of who was in charge here, in reality only hunters and traders came from Europeans, who did not particularly offend the Indians.

Well, in the end, as always, money decided everything. In 1803, the United States took and bought the state of Arkansas (which, of course, no one had yet called a state) from France. That's what they decided on.

Capital of Arkansas

The largest and most famous city in Arkansas is Little Rock, which translates to “little stone” or “little rock.” This modern city with a well-developed economy. Little Rock is located at the foot of a ridge of rocks on the banks of a wide river. The city has many interesting museums and exhibitions. With special pride local residents They will show you the Presidential Library and at the same time tell you about the history of its origin.

The local Capitol is also an attraction. On its territory there are many interesting sculptures that embody the history of the city. Arkansas is a state known for its vocal struggle for the rights of black citizens. One of the architectural compositions is dedicated to the first nine black students who entered the local school. Other beautiful architectural ensembles can be seen simply by walking along the streets of the city.

Arkansas Natural Treasure

But the state of Arkansas is not primarily famous for its architecture. Cities are not the most important thing on this list. There are literally dozens of nature reserves throughout the state. Due to the fact that it is prohibited to use any kind of transport in the protected area, only natural sounds reign around. Among the forests, valleys and rocks, you can truly feel like a pioneer.

There are also many caves on the territory of this cozy and truly natural state. Really a lot. Forty-three thousand! Give or take a couple of hundred. Many of them were once inhabited by Indians. Today, access to them is open to lovers of adventure and speleology.

It is impossible not to mention the hot mineral springs. They are located in national park Hot Springs. Almost fifty hot springs (the temperature of the water coming to the surface is +61 degrees Celsius) daily bring healing waters from the depths of the mountains. These sources, however, have been cultivated, but this was done with skill. Both the mineralogical clinics themselves and the individual bathrooms simply delight the eye with beauty and elegance.

Crater of Diamonds

Back in 1906, a simple farmer named John was plowing his land. And I found a diamond. Further, the scenario is somewhat similar to how the state of Arkansas was “born”. Owners changed, diamond mining began (and on an industrial scale), something went wrong, someone bribed someone, someone set something on fire... There was complete confusion. So far, the state authorities have not taken or even bought the coveted plot. They bought it and turned it into Crater of Diamonds State Park.

All the more or less interesting historical buildings have been preserved on the territory. Here you can see old rooms for washing rock and even some mining equipment. Although that’s not what they come here for. The fact is that any diamond found can be taken with you completely legally and free of charge. They will also weigh it for you and issue you a certificate. And they do find it! Not often and not big, but they are found. And some were really lucky, and the diamonds they found turned into luxurious cut diamonds.

Saint Francis National Forest

The state of Arkansas is conventionally divided into the following regions: the Mississippi Valley, the Arkansas River Valley, the Mexican Coastal Plain, the Ouachita Mountains and the Ozark Plateau. The plateau is home to one of the most beautiful nature reserves - the St. Francis National Forest. It was founded in 1908, famous for its love of forests. It is especially beautiful here in the fall, when the trees dress in bright outfits of colorful leaves.

Arkansas– located in the south of the country. The name itself comes from the word “acansa”, which, translated from the language of the Sioux Indians, was interpreted as "a place downstream of a river." The state's nickname is “The Natural State,” or “The Natural State.” Arkansas received this nickname due to its amazing nature, crystal lakes, virgin forests and diversity of fauna. The state symbols are the mockingbird and the apple blossom.

In terms of area (137.7 thousand km2) it ranks 29th, in terms of population (almost 3 million people) it ranks 32nd. Most big city in the state - . It is also the capital of Arkansas. Other major cities states - Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Springdale, Jonesboro.

For a long time since Europeans appeared on the lands of Arkansas, indigenous people lived here
tribes of Indians of various nations - Quapaw, Choctaw, Cherokee and others. They are classified as the peoples of the so-called “Mississippian culture.”

Europeans entered Arkansas in the 16th century. It was a Spanish expedition led by Hernando de Soto. After the expedition, he declared that these lands were Spanish. Only more than a hundred years later another European expedition came here, after which these lands were declared to belong to French possessions. After this, Spain and France spent a long time figuring out whose lands these were. As a result, in 1803, the United States bought all the American colonies from France, including Arkansas. It was admitted as a state within the United States on June 15, 1836, and is the twenty-fifth. (This is reflected in the state flag, which was adopted in 1913).

The main sectors of the Arkansas economy are agriculture, mechanical engineering, mining (oil, natural gas, coal, lead, zinc, silver), etc. Arkansas has the only diamond deposit in the country.

Until the mid-twentieth century, Arkansas was considered an agricultural state. The main culture here has always been considered cotton(whose plantations are located along the banks of the Mississippi), but recently the cultivation of wheat, rice, and soybeans has been actively developed. Various fruits and berries are grown throughout the state, especially in large quantities- These are apples and strawberries. Also in agriculturebig specific gravity occupies poultry farming– Poultry meat and eggs are especially in demand.

By 1951, the number of factories and factories had increased significantly. Gradually, the industrial sector began to gain momentum in the state.

Tourism also brings significant income to Arkansas. Famous attractions such as St. Francis on the Ozark Plateau, Ouachita National Forest, .

The state is 77% white, 15% African American, and 6.4% Hispanic/Latino.

Major cities in Arkansas

: 193,524 people
Fort Smith: 80,268 people
Fayetteville: 73,372 people
Jonesboro: 67,263 people
Springdale: 66,881 people
Conway: 59,511 people
Rogers: 56,726 people
Hot Springs: 39,467 people
North Little Rock
Pine Bluff

State, USA. Named after the Arkansas River. Hydronym from the Indian Akenzea with unknown value. Geographical names of the world: Toponymic dictionary. M: AST. Pospelov E.M. 2001. Arkansas... Geographical encyclopedia

State in the southern USA. 138 thousand km². Population 2.4 million people (1993). Adm. c. Little Rock... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

I (Arkansas), a river in the USA, a right tributary of the Mississippi. 2410 km, basin area 416 thousand km2. Average water flow is about 1300 m3/s. Navigable 1000 km from the mouth. There is a large reservoir in the Arkansas basin. II state in the southern USA. 138 thousand km2.… … Encyclopedic Dictionary

The stone on which compass pins are sharpened. Samoilov K. I. Marine dictionary. M.L.: State Naval Publishing House NKVMF USSR, 1941 ... Marine Dictionary

- [by the name of the state of North America] – white fine-grained stone; used as sharpening stones Big dictionary foreign words. Publishing house "IDDK", 2007 ... Dictionary of foreign words of the Russian language

Noun, number of synonyms: 3 stone (192) river (2073) state (133) ASIS Dictionary of Synonyms. V.N. Trishin... Dictionary of synonyms

I Arkansas (Arkansas) river in the USA, right, second largest (after Missouri) tributary of the Mississippi. Length 2410 km. The basin area is 470 thousand km2. It originates in the Rocky Mountains, in the upper reaches it flows through narrow, deep gorges (Royal... ... Great Soviet Encyclopedia

One of southern states North American Union, between 33° and 36° 30 north. w. and 89° 30 and 94° 30 z. d. (from Green.), borders on the E. by the Mississippi River and the state of Missouri, on the N. Missouri, on the W. by Indian Territory and Texas, on the S. Louisiana and occupies ... ... Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Ephron

Arkansas- state, USA. Named after the Arkansas River. Hydronym from the Indian Akenzea with unknown meaning... Toponymic dictionary

Arkansas- arkansas ace, a (mineral) ... Russian spelling dictionary

Books

  • Garden of earthly joys
  • The Garden of Earthly Delights, Joyce Carol Oates. The novel takes place in Arkansas. The Carlton family, in search of seasonal work, is forced to travel a long distance through dusty and hot terrain. Physical suffering and deprivation...

Arkansas is a state in the southern United States and belongs to the group of states in the Southwestern Center. The "Natural State" moniker was originally coined by conservation authorities as a tourism promotion slogan in the late 1970s, but is still in use today. And for good reason - the nature and landscape of the state amazes with its diversity: clean rivers, picturesque green valleys, mountains and hills, dense forests. For those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of big cities, breathe fresh air, enjoy fishing, hunting, and traveling along the river, Arkansas is what you need.

The capital of Arkansas is the most populous city of Little Rock, and is located in the central part of the state.

By the way, Arkansas once belonged to France, and the Americans bought the territory of the state from Napoleon Bonaparte for only 23 million dollars. Now in this state you can meet Americans of French, English, Irish origin, Chinese, Syrians, Mexicans, and, of course, Indians.

How to get there

The most important airport in the state is Little Rock Adams Field National Airport. Travel time from Moscow will be from 15 to 25 hours. Planes from the capital fly from Domodedovo, Sheremetyevo and Vnukovo. Depending on the air carrier you choose, you may face one or two transfers.

Search for flights to Little Rock (closest airport to Arkansas)

We recommend renting a car before arriving in the state. Arkansas has been a leader in road construction for decades, thanks to its unique paving techniques. So the Arkansas highways and the surrounding landscapes promise to make your road trip unforgettable.

Weather in Arkansas

The state's climate is subtropical, moderately humid. Winters are mild and snowy, summers are hot. The average temperature in January is +2...+15 °C, in July - +27 °C. In summer the heat can reach +40 °C. However, don't forget that Arkansas is known for its extreme weather. Thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail, snow and ice storms are fairly common in this state. Arkansas experiences rain and thunderstorms approximately 60 days a year. This is due to the two-way influence on climate from the Persian Gulf and the Great Plains. Arkansas is located in what is known as Tornado Alley, and this natural phenomenon is quite common here. So, before you go on holiday to the land of Gone with the Wind, check the weather reports.

Popular hotels in Arkansas

Entertainment and attractions in Arkansas

Thanks to the successful economic policy Arkansas became known as the "Land of Opportunity." Tourists from all over the world claim that this is a land of opportunity not only for business, but also for travel. Where in one more trip you can raft down a river, climb a mountain, walk through a forest and find yourself in a magically beautiful valley. And all this wealth is “equipped” by nature itself with stunning views and picturesque places for camping and family recreation.

In one trip to Arkansas you can raft down a river, climb a mountain, walk through a forest and find yourself in a magically beautiful valley.

Arkansas is a land of mountains and valleys, dense forests and fertile plains. The Natural State is home to many famous caves, such as Blanchard Springs. In total, there are more than 43 thousand caves here - so those who like to “climb” will have something to do. Many of these caves were used by Indians for hunting, living, or making tools.

Now Arkansas is the only state in the United States where diamonds are mined (near Murfreesboro). They are collected by residents with simple tools for a small daily fee and by tourists for souvenirs.

Arkansas is a land of mountains and valleys, dense forests and fertile plains.

There are dozens of nature reserves open in Arkansas, with a total area of ​​150 thousand acres of land. These areas are designed for outdoor activities and are open to fishing, hunting and hiking. Any kind of vehicles and therefore there is peace and quiet there. Being on this territory, you can feel like a real pioneer, because it seems that you were the first person to set foot on this land.

Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs Park is located in the central part of the state. This is the oldest and smallest national park in the United States. For more than 200 years, the park’s water sources, which have unique healing properties thanks to the mineral salts in their composition, have helped those suffering from rheumatism, arthritis and other diseases. 47 springs flow from the western slope of Hot Springs Mountain and bring to the surface one million liters of water with a temperature of +61 ° C. Today, bathing in the springs, steam rooms, showers, cold and hot compresses and massage are popular here.

The bathrooms and mineralogical clinics built in Hot Springs are striking in their unique architectural features.

Add to the healing waters mountain ranges covered with oak forests in the north and pine forests in the south, a variety of fauna (walking through the park, you can meet a fox, possum, raccoon or squirrel), uninterrupted birdsong and, of course, comfortable hotels and service the highest level and you will get a “pill” for fatigue, depression and lack of impressions.

Arkansas

Every year, Hot Springs Park is flooded with up to a million tourists who come to plunge not only into the local baths, but also into wonderful world nature of the park. One of the favorite places for travelers is Lake Auchita. In addition to the cleanest water, the lake is rich in pike, perch, trout and other fish. Fishermen, once here, forget even about the healing springs, and as a reward they receive a rich catch. In addition to fishing on the lake, you can easily ride jet skis or ride catamarans.

In addition to the cleanest water, Lake Auchiga is rich in pike, perch, trout and other fish.

Little Rock

The capital of Arkansas is located in the south and is famous not only for the fact that the beloved Gone with the Wind was filmed here, but also for the fact that it is now home to one of the largest US Air Force bases.

Among the city's attractions, it is worth noting the Arkansas State Capitol, built in 1915 and which is a smaller copy of Washington, the Arkansas Center for the Arts, the Museum of Science and Natural History, the Douglas MacArthur House Museum, an open-air museum with an exhibition about the development of Arkansas, and the old capitol. Little Rock has a symphony orchestra and a repertory theater. And in 2004, the presidential library of Bill Clinton, a native of Arkansas, opened in the city.

The Arkansas State Capitol, a beautiful building built in 1915, houses the state's headquarters. Various monuments and sculptures are located on the territory of the Capitol. There is also a second, older Capitol building (1836), which is currently presented as a museum.

On one floor of the Capitol there is a special “Call of Duty” exhibit dedicated to Arkansas veterans who participated in wars from 1812 to the present day.

If you are traveling with children, be sure to visit the only zoo in the state, where about 700 animals live, happily awaiting their little guests. Treats are welcome!

All this - fishing and swimming in the Mississippi River, walks in nature reserves, communication with nature, silence, fresh air, caves, ancient buildings and state museums - will decorate not only your vacation, but also winter evenings - with memories of the “Land of Great Opportunities”.