Missouri

North America, United States
United States

People from Missouri are called:

Male/General:

Missourian

Pronunciation:

/mɪˈzʊəriən/

Quick Facts

Population:
6,190,000 (2024 est.)
Country:
United States
Region:
North America

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Etymology & Origin

The name Missouri comes from the Missouri tribe, a group of the Siouan language family. The tribal name is believed to mean "town of the large canoes" or "people with wooden canoes," from the Illinois language ouemessourita.

French explorers recorded the name as Missouri in the late 17th century, and it was applied to the river and the region. Missouri became the 24th state on August 10, 1821. The demonym Missourian is formed by adding -ian to the state name, following standard English practice.

Notable People Associated with Missouri

This place has been connected to many influential figures throughout history.

Literature & Arts

Mark Twain

Florida, Missouri

The pen name of Samuel Clemens, a world-renowned author and humorist known for 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.'

The Adventures of Tom SawyerHuckleberry Finn
Maya Angelou

St. Louis, Missouri

A poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist best known for her series of seven autobiographies.

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

Politics & Leadership

Harry S. Truman

Lamar, Missouri

The 33rd President of the United States, who led the country through the final stages of World War II.

33rd U.S. PresidentTruman Doctrine

Business & Innovation

George Washington Carver

Diamond, Missouri

An agricultural scientist and inventor who promoted alternative crops to cotton and methods to prevent soil depletion.

Agricultural ScientistInventor

Music & Entertainment

Sheryl Crow

Kennett, Missouri

A singer-songwriter and musician whose music incorporates elements of pop, rock, country, and blues.

Nine-time Grammy Winner
Walt Disney

Chicago, Illinois (Raised in Marceline, Missouri)

The pioneer of the American animation industry who introduced several developments in the production of cartoons.

Founder of DisneyCreator of Mickey Mouse
Brad Pitt

Shawnee, Oklahoma (Raised in Springfield, Missouri)

An Academy Award-winning actor and film producer known for his roles in 'Fight Club' and 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.'

Academy Award WinnerFight Club

Sports Legends

Yogi Berra

St. Louis, Missouri

A Hall of Fame baseball catcher, manager, and coach who won 10 World Series championships with the New York Yankees.

10-time World Series ChampionThree-time AL MVP

About Missouri

  • Capital city: Jefferson City.
  • Gateway Arch in St. Louis symbolizes westward expansion.
  • Economy includes aerospace, agriculture, and transportation.
  • Admitted as the 24th state in 1821.

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