The United States of America is a faraway country across the ocean, causing conflicting feelings among Russians. This state triumphed in the Cold War and put an end to the bipolar world of the second half of the 20th century ...
Today, the USA is the hegemonic country with the strongest economy in the world and huge external debt.
What is the administrative structure of North America? Today we will look at this issue with the example of the city of Springfield, Illinois.
Historical excursion
Illinois (Prairie State, Lincoln Land) is the twenty-first state of the existing fifty, located in the Midwestern United States. It is the fifth in terms of population density.
The history of this area is similar to the history of most other territories of the North American continent. It can be conditionally divided into the pre-Columbian period and the period of European colonization. Before the arrival of the fateful expedition to North America, the Indians inhabited this territory.
Then the European colonialists came to Illinois. The first were the French, then the British. In different hands was this fertile area. The fate of Illinois becomes more or less clear after the Black Hawk War. It ended with the adoption of the first Constitution in 1818.
Prairie State Capital
Despite the fact that the largest city of Illinois is Chicago, the capital is the wonderful city of Springfield. The state of Illinois and the specified locality are associated with the identity of Abraham Lincoln. It was thanks to him that Springfield became the capital in 1839. In more detail about this outstanding person we will tell below.
The state capital stands on the Sangamon River. It flows along the plain, on the site of which many years ago there was a glacier. Springfield is located in the temperate continental climate. This area is characterized by cold winters and hot summers with frequent rains.
The population of the city is about 117,000 people. Most of them are Europeans (74.7%); followed by African Americans - 18.5%; Hispanics and Asians make up the remaining 4.2% of the population.
The nature of Springfield is very picturesque. In spring and summer, the area is literally surrounded by greenery. Not far from the city is Lake Michigan.
Abraham Lincoln and his activities in Illinois
Every American has heard of this legendary man who influenced the course of history. Lincoln, without a doubt, can be called an outstanding personality: he is revered and loved in his homeland. He is also on the list of the hundred most studied historical figures.
What is Lincoln famous for? His wise policies and outstanding oratorical abilities. Born into the family of a poor farmer, Abraham from childhood saw injustice and social inequality. This prompted him to realize the importance of equality between people. Lincoln fought for the liberation of black slaves from the influence of white masters.
From childhood, the boy loved to read and was engaged in self-education. He studied the Bible, Greek philosophy, and books on political science. Once in Illinois, Abraham sided with the Indians during their rebellion. The first success of the future president was the appointment as postmaster in New Salem (Springfield, Illinois, is nearby).
Further, Lincoln’s career developed rapidly: he created the Republican Party, and in 1860 became President of the United States. The results of political reforms were the abolition of slavery and the reunification of the country (southern and northern parts). This man possessed an amazing gift of conviction: even the enemies listened and believed his speeches.
Attractions of the American town
Frankly, the Illinois capital is not very rich in attractions. But still there are several interesting places:
- Opera and Ballet Theatre.
- Abraham Lincoln House Museum and Library.
- Vietnam War Veterans Cemetery .
We advise all tourists not to linger in the city for a long time, but to go to the north of the state to wonderful nature and magnificent lakes.
A bit about religion
All world religions are represented in the USA. The country is literally full of occult and esoteric movements.
Like all of Illinois, the majority of the population professes Catholicism in the city of Springfield. The state is also rich in other religious movements and associations. The largest non-Christian group of people are Jews (approximately 270 thousand people). It is interesting that many of them do not profess Judaism, but are atheists or agnostics.
The number of fans of the New Age, Hinduism and Sikh movement is constantly increasing.
Among the sects, Baptists and Protestants are most widely represented. Illinois is also the largest stronghold of Mormons. The number of their followers is 55 thousand people.
Interesting Facts
- The name Springfield is widespread throughout North America. For example, there is the city of Springfield (Massachusetts). Only 1.5 thousand kilometers from the capital of Illinois, and you will find yourself in a city with the same name on the Atlantic coast.
- In another Springfield, the action of the famous series The Simpsons takes place. The location of the legendary town is unknown to anyone. We can only hypothesize ... It is known that in the invented Springfield there is a nuclear power plant, a brewery, a Jewish quarter, Chinatown, “Little Italy” and a friendly Russian quarter.
- Illinois legalizes medical marijuana use. This makes life easier for people with epilepsy and HIV infection. In addition, hemp often cures depression.
Here is such an interesting town of Springfield (which state, we already know), located in the central part of the North American continent.