Illinois Constitution- The Rivers

Illinois Constitution

The History of Illinois Illinois Constitution Law Making

The Rivers of Illinois The Legislative Branch The Executive Branch

The Executive Officers The Judiciary Branch Voting in Illinois

Local Government Illinois State Symbols

Illinois Constitution

The Rivers of Illinois

Illinois Rivers

Our state is located at the heart of the great interior river system of the continent. Rivers help to form some of the boundaries of our state. The Mississippi River forms our state's western boundary. The Wabash and Ohio Rivers form part of the eastern boundary. The Ohio River forms Illinois' southern boundary. Across the state flows the Illinois, Kaskaskia, Sangamon, Spoon, Rock, Embarrass, Kankakee and Des Plaines Rivers - each in its day a highway of trade. Our nation's number one waterway of trade throughout history has been the Mississippi River. The Indians called it "the Father of all the Rivers."

Besides trade, Illinois has used its rivers as a source of transportation, recreation, hydroelectric power, and natural beauty.

Illinois rivers have also been a source of problems. In earlier days malaria was a problem facing the settlers of Illinois. Today flooding is a concern for thousands of people who live along rivers. Although improving, pollution of Illinois waterways is an area of concern.