Ten fun facts about Illinois

1. Springfield, Illinois - The Capital of the Prairie State

Illinois, known as the "Prairie State", is home to the sixth largest city in the state, Springfield. With a land size of 116,250 square miles, Springfield is the capital of Illinois and is a great place to explore the prairie landscape. From the rolling hills of the Shawnee National Forest to the vast wetlands of the Cache River State Natural Area, Illinois is a great place to experience the beauty of the prairie.

Also → Springfield, Illinois: The Second Most Populous City in Illinois

2. Chicago, Illinois - The Most Popular City in the US

Illinois is home to the largest and most recognized city in the state, Chicago. Spanning an impressive 2,695,598 acres, Chicago is a bustling metropolis that offers a wealth of attractions, from its iconic skyline to its world-class museums and restaurants. With its vibrant culture and diverse population, it's no wonder that Chicago is one of the most popular cities in the United States.

Also → Aurora, Illinois: A City of Diversity and Vibrancy

3. A State with a Rich History

Illinois is a state with a rich history, and its name is a testament to that. The name "Illinois" is derived from an Algonquin Indian word meaning "Warriors". This is a fitting name for the state, as it has a long history of brave warriors, from the Native Americans who first inhabited the area to the brave soldiers who fought in the Civil War. The name is a reminder of the courage and strength of the people of Illinois, and serves as a reminder of the state's proud heritage.

Also → Aurora, Illinois - A City of Diversity and Vibrancy

4. Ronald Reagan's Birthplace: Illinois

Illinois is the birthplace of the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan. Born in Tampico on February 6, 1911, Reagan went on to become one of the most influential presidents in American history. His legacy includes the Reagan Revolution, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the end of the Cold War.

Also → Peoria, Illinois: A Vibrant City on the Illinois River

5. Home to a Variety of Wildlife

Illinois is home to a variety of wildlife, including the state bird, the cardinal, the state animal, the white-tailed deer, and the state fish, the bluegill. Cardinals are easily recognizable by their bright red feathers, while white-tailed deer are known for their white-tipped tails. Bluegills are a type of sunfish that can be found in many of the state's lakes and rivers.

Also → Rockford, Illinois: A Popular Outdoor Destination

6. Illegal to Urinate in Neighbor's Mouth in IL

In Illinois, it is illegal for any person to urinate in their neighbor's mouth - a strange law that has been on the books for some time. This law is in place to protect citizens from any form of humiliation or degradation, and to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity. It is also a reminder that no matter how strange a law may seem, it is still important to abide by it.

Also → Chicago's Influence and Reach Goes Beyond Illinois

7. Birthplace of Famous Figures

Illinois is the birthplace of some of the most iconic figures in history. From the comedic genius of Jack Benny to the imaginative works of Ray Bradbury and Edgar Rice Burroughs, the state has produced some of the most influential people of the 20th century. It is also the birthplace of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and the legendary Walt Disney, whose works have captivated generations of children and adults alike.

Also → Idaho's State Flowers and Trees

8. 21-Year-Olds in Illinois Can legally drink alcohol

In the state of Illinois, a unique law was passed in 2013 that allows anyone under the age of 21 to legally consume alcohol if they are enrolled in a culinary school or program. This law was created to give students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with alcoholic beverages, such as learning how to properly store, serve, and mix drinks. It also allows them to gain a better understanding of the different types of alcohol and how they can be used in cooking and baking. This law is a great way for aspiring chefs to gain the knowledge and experience they need to succeed in the culinary world.

Also → The Natural State: A Guide to the Best of Arkansas

9. A Major Agricultural State

Illinois is a major agricultural state, with corn, cattle, wheat, and soybeans being the main sources of production. Corn is the most widely grown crop, with over 13 million acres of land dedicated to its cultivation. Cattle are also a major agricultural commodity, with over 1.5 million head of cattle in the state. Wheat is the third most important crop, with over 4 million acres of land dedicated to its production. Finally, soybeans are the fourth most important crop, with over 3 million acres of land dedicated to its cultivation. Together, these four crops make up the majority of the agricultural production in Illinois.

Also → Missouri's Top Agricultural Commodity

10. A State With Unique Flora

Illinois is a state with a unique combination of flora, with the violet as its state flower and the white oak as its state tree. The violet is a small, delicate flower that is often found in woodlands and meadows, while the white oak is a large, majestic tree that can reach heights of up to 100 feet and live for centuries. Both of these plants are native to Illinois and are a source of pride for the state.

Also → Connecticut: The "Constitution State"