Interesting Facts About Ilinois
Welcome to Illinois, the Prairie State! This picturesque midwestern state has a lot to offer in terms of history, culture, and recreation. From the bustling cities of Chicago and Springfield to the endless fields of corn and soybeans, Illinois has something for everyone. Here are some interesting facts about Illinois that you may not know.
1. Illinois was the 21st state to enter the Union in 1818.
2. The city of Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States with more than 2.7 million residents.
3. Basketball was invented in Springfield, Illinois, in 1891.
4. The Chicago Cubs are the oldest professional baseball team in the United States, having been founded in 1870.
5. Illinois is the most populous Midwestern state with more than 12.7 million residents.
6. Chicago is home to the world’s tallest building, the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower).
7. The Chicago River is the only river in the world that flows backwards.
8. Illinois is the birthplace of the legendary musician and composer, John Phillip Sousa.
9. The city of Chicago is known for its unique architecture, including the world-famous Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as “The Bean”).
10. Illinois is home to the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, which was built in 1885.
11. Illinois is bordered by Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, and Indiana.
12. The Mississippi and Illinois rivers are two of the largest rivers in the state.
13. Illinois is home to the world’s largest corn maze, located in the city of Arthur.
14. The state’s highest point is Charles Mound, at an elevation of 1,235 feet.
15. The city of Chicago is located on the shores of Lake Michigan.
16. The state of Illinois experiences all four seasons, with hot and humid summers and cold winters.
17. The state is home to the world’s largest man-made lake, Lake Michigan.
18. Illinois is the fifth most populous state in the United States.
19. The state is home to more than 200 native species of birds.
20. The world’s first nuclear power plant was built in the town of Morris, Illinois.
21. The state of Illinois is the fifth largest economy in the United States.
22. Illinois is the home of the world’s largest financial exchange, the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.
23. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is the third largest university in the United States, with more than 43,000 students.
24. The city of Chicago is home to more than 30 Fortune 500 companies, including Boeing, McDonald’s, and Kraft Foods.
25. Illinois is home to the world’s largest public library, The Newberry Library, located in Chicago.
26. The state of Illinois is the largest producer of soybeans in the United States.
27. The city of Chicago is the nation’s third-largest manufacturing center.
28. The state of Illinois is home to more than 130 public universities and colleges.
29. The city of Chicago is home to the world-famous Art Institute of Chicago.
30. The world’s first Telegraph system was invented in the city of Chicago in 1844.
Illinois is an incredibly diverse and interesting state. From the bustling cities to the rural farmland, there is something for everyone in the Prairie State. This list of interesting facts about Illinois only scratches the surface of all that this great state has to offer. From its rich history and culture to its thriving economy and education systems, Illinois is sure to surprise and delight you.
