Mississippi became the 20th state in the United States of America on December 10, 1817.

Known as the Magnolia State, the state is named for the Mississippi River, which runs along its western border. Among U.S. states, the Magnolia State is 32nd in size, and with approximately three million people, it ranks 31st in population.

Natchez, long established as a major river port, was the first state capital. In 1822, the capital was moved to the more central location of Jackson.