There are so many lakes (15,000) and so much land along Lake Superior that 90% of the population of Minnesota lives within a 10 minute drive of a large body of water. This is the land of Lakes! Admitted to the Union in 1858, Minnesota soon developed its iron ore deposits and mining in general. The economy attracted immigrants from Scandinavia and Germany. At the time of statehood, Minnesota enjoyed strong lumbering and fishing industries which it does to this day. Sport fishing has always been a major attraction here, particularly because of its clear and clean lakes. The cultural centers of the Twins Cities - Minneapolis and St. Paul - attract marvelous performances and events that are available throughout the year.
Capital: St. Paul
Population: 4, 375, 099
Area: 84, 068 sq. miles
Geography: Minnesota is bordered by Canada to the north, Lake Superior and Wisconsin to the east, Iowa to the south and North Dakota and South Dakota to the west. The southern areas are relatively flat . In the more northerly areas the are thousands of lakes and vast forested areas.
Climate
Minnesota enjoys very pleasant summers with extremes of temperature hardly every occurring. Spring and fall are chilly to cool but very pleasant. Winters are particularly cold and windy. |
