Great Plains

Great Plains is a broad expanse of flat land, much of it covered in prairie, steppe, and grassland, located in America and Canada. It lies west of the Mississippi River and east of the Rocky Mountains. The Great Plains is known for its vast grasslands, fertile soil, and important role in American history.

Geography

The Great Plains covers an area of approximately 1,125,000 square miles, stretching across ten U.S. states and three Canadian provinces. The region is characterized by its flat terrain and lack of trees, except for those grown in river valleys. The Great Plains' elevation increases gradually from east to west, with the eastern boundary defined by a 1,500-foot contour line and the western boundary by the Rocky Mountains.

Climate

The climate of the Great Plains is semi-arid, with low humidity and moderate rainfall. The region experiences extreme temperature variations, with hot summers and cold winters. Tornadoes are common in the Great Plains, particularly in the southern part known as Tornado Alley.

Flora and Fauna

The Great Plains is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. The dominant vegetation is grass, with the tallgrass prairie in the east and the shortgrass steppe in the west. The region is also home to many species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, including the American Bison, pronghorn antelope, and prairie dogs.

History

The Great Plains has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The region was home to numerous Native American tribes, including the Comanche, Cheyenne, and Sioux. The Great Plains played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States in the 19th century, with many settlers attracted by the promise of free land under the Homestead Act.

Economy

The economy of the Great Plains is largely based on agriculture, with wheat, corn, and cattle ranching being the main industries. The region is also a major producer of natural gas and oil, with significant reserves located in the Bakken Formation.

See Also

• North American Prairie
• American Frontier
• Dust Bowl

References

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