Illinois Travel Guide

With one glaring, urban exception, this is an agricultural state. The flat Prairie lands make it one of the most productive farming areas in the US.

After customary wrangling between the British and the French in its earliest years Illinois became an officially recognised 'territory' in 1809 and a state in 1818. Both these events caused a surge in immigration of farmers into the area. Inevitably, this influx of farmers created tension with the Native American population equally inevitably this led to the expulsion of the indigenous people to lands further west. The growth of the state reflected the growth and development of the nation. Improved canal and then rail links made Illinois a major economic entity. Ever wondered where cowboys were driving the cattle? Many of them ended up in Illinois' meatpacking warehouses and stockyards. Steel making and Railroad Car manufacturing also helped to build the status of Illinois.

The state can also claim to be the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln. He lived and worked in the state capital Springfield. There are various buildings devoted to the great man's memory. The town is also his burial place.

Much of the industry of the state has gone although coal and oil continue to make significant contributions. Agriculture remains and the state is still one of the biggest contributors to the nations food basket.

However the main reason for going to Illinois is to visit the Windy City, it's my kind of town.