Illinois

The French figure prominently in Illinois' early history. French soldiers explored the region and built a fort in the late 1600s and then settled the area in the early 1700s. The British took over in 1763, but the American Revolution soon ended their stewardship. Illinois became the 21st state in 1818.

Illinois is a border state, shaped by the different traditions of east and west, north and south. In the 1820s, Illinois was caught in a political tug-of-war in a United States that was not yet strongly united. The northern states opposed slavery and sought to recruit the slaves as free industrial workers, while the southern states wanted to maintain an agricultural economy and keep slavery legal. Illinois, as a border state, was in a difficult position. It eventually voted against slavery, despite the fact that many residents supported it. The same conflict existed during the Civil War in the 1860s. At the beginning of the War, it was not clear whether Illinois would support the anti-slavery Union or join the pro-slavery Confederacy. Once again, Illinois aligned itself with the north and the industrial interests of the eastern business elite.

Once the war was over, Illinois profited from Chicago's massive growth during America's industrial revolution. In many ways industrialization was a positive force, but it polarized the state. The urban prosperity of Chicago did not extend to Illinois' more rural south. This contrast continues to this day and is a major factor in Illinois' politics. The rural parts of Illinois tend to support the conservative Republican Party, but the urban centers like Chicago tend to vote with the more liberal Democratic Party.

Fortunately, Illinois offers more than an interesting political history. More than 30 million tourists visit the state each year and visitors are beginning to recognize the potential for outdoor recreation in the state. The state's interesting mixed terrain makes for great mountain biking, while its many waterways offer splendid kayaking and canoeing. The Shawnee National Forest in the Ozark region boasts rich vegetation and wildlife and is an excellent site for hiking, camping, and many other outdoor activities.

Other state attractions include Springfield's Dana-Thomas House, one of the best preserved examples of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright's work; Cahokia Mounds, the site of an extraordinary prehistoric Native American city; and the annual Illinois State Fair, a fun family-oriented event.