Why Isn't Southern Missouri Considered Part of The South?

The categorization of regions in the United States, particularly whether a state or region is classified as being in the South, is complex and often influenced by historical, cultural, and geographical factors.

Historical Context

During the American Civil War, Missouri was a border state, politically divided between Union and Confederate loyalties. While the southern part of the state does have cultural ties to the South, it was not part of the Confederacy. This divided allegiance sets the stage for why the southern half of Missouri does not fit into the traditional definitions of the South.

Geographical Boundaries

The South is frequently defined by its cultural and historical ties to the Confederacy, as well as specific geographical features. States such as Texas, Georgia, and Alabama are typically recognized as part of the South due to their historical and cultural affiliations. However, Missouri's geolocation and economic ties often place it within the cultural and economic sphere of the Midwest.

Cultural Differences

While Southern Missouri shares some cultural elements with the South, such as certain dialects, music styles, and traditions, the northern part of the state, particularly around St. Louis and Kansas City, has a more Midwestern cultural identity. This geographical and cultural dispersion influences the overall perception and categorization of the state.

Political Identity

In contemporary politics, Missouri often aligns more with Midwestern states, especially during elections. Political affiliations and voting patterns can significantly impact how a region is perceived and categorized. This alignment with Midwestern states further reinforces the classification of Missouri as part of the Midwest rather than the South.

It's worth noting that this categorization is not absolute and can vary based on different perspectives. Just as with Kentucky and to a certain degree Maryland, Missouri's complex history and cultural landscape make it a subject of debate.

Part of the state, particularly the southern regions, still has strong cultural ties to the South, reflecting the South's status as a "state of mind." Even though the entire state might not be included in lists of Southern states, it is undeniable that parts of Missouri do maintain Southern cultural characteristics. This cultural continuum is also observed in borderline states that have a mix of cultural identities.

Overall, the classification of Southern Missouri as part of the Midwest rather than the South is influenced by a multifaceted interplay of historical, geographical, and political factors.