Iowa: The Hawkeye State - 50StatesQuiz.org

Location: Iowa is situated in the Midwestern United States, bordered by Minnesota to the north, Wisconsin and Illinois to the east, Missouri to the south, and Nebraska and South Dakota to the west.
Major Landforms:
- Prairies and Farmland: Iowa is known for its rolling hills and fertile farmland, part of the Corn Belt.
- Mississippi River: Forms the state’s eastern border, providing rich ecosystems and recreational opportunities.
- Loess Hills: Unique wind-blown silt formations found along the western edge of the state.
- Driftless Area: A rugged, scenic region in the northeast untouched by glaciers.
Rivers and Lakes: Besides the Mississippi, the Missouri River defines the western border, while the Des Moines and Cedar Rivers traverse the interior.
Climate: Iowa experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, perfect for agriculture.

GDP (2023): ~$200 billion
Major Industries:
- Agriculture: Iowa is a leader in corn and soybean production, along with hog farming.
- Renewable Energy: A pioneer in wind energy, generating over 40% of its electricity from wind turbines.
- Manufacturing: Produces machinery, food products, and chemical goods.
- Financial Services: Des Moines is a hub for insurance and financial companies.
- Biotechnology: Advances in agricultural biotech drive innovation.
Key Exports: Corn, pork, soybeans, ethanol, and machinery.

Diversity:
- Ethnic Breakdown:
  - White: 85%
  - Hispanic/Latino: 7%
  - Black/African American: 4%
  - Asian: 3%
  - Other/Mixed: 1%
Languages: English is the predominant language, with Spanish spoken by a growing segment.
Religions: Predominantly Christian, with a mix of Protestant and Catholic communities.

Native American Heritage: Tribes such as the Ioway, Sioux, and Sauk and Fox originally inhabited the region.
Territorial History: Acquired by the U.S. as part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.
Settlement: European-American settlers arrived in the early 19th century, drawn by fertile soil.
Statehood: Became the 29th state in 1846, known for its progressive politics and commitment to education.
Agricultural Legacy: The fertile prairies turned Iowa into an agricultural powerhouse, shaping its economy and culture.

Field of Dreams: The iconic baseball field in Dyersville, made famous by the 1989 movie.
Amana Colonies: A historic communal society founded by German immigrants, now a cultural and tourist destination.
Iowa State Fair: One of the largest state fairs in the U.S., celebrating agriculture, food, and entertainment.
Effigy Mounds National Monument: Preserves ancient Native American burial mounds shaped like animals.
Bridges of Madison County: Famous covered bridges and the inspiration for a bestselling novel and movie.
Des Moines Art Center: A hub for contemporary art and architecture.

Iowa has the highest percentage of farmland of any state in the U.S.
It ranks first in the nation for egg production.
The state is known as the “Food Capital of the World” due to its agricultural output.
Iowa hosts the first-in-the-nation caucuses during presidential elections, giving it significant political influence.
The University of Iowa’s Writer’s Workshop has produced numerous Pulitzer Prize-winning authors.

Cycling: The annual RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) attracts thousands.
Fishing and Boating: The Mississippi and Missouri Rivers are ideal for water activities.
Hiking: Backbone State Park offers trails through rugged bluffs and forests.
Wildlife Watching: Bald eagles are commonly seen along the Mississippi River.
Camping: State parks like Lake Okoboji provide serene spots for outdoor enthusiasts.

Notable Universities:
- University of Iowa in Iowa City (known for its medical and writing programs).
- Iowa State University in Ames (a leader in agriculture and engineering).
- Drake University in Des Moines.