Southern Illinois has long been referred to as "Little Egypt." This nickname may be the result of the practices of early settlers from Northern Illinois who traveled to Southern Illinois to buy grain after a series of bad winters and droughts.
Why is Southern IL called Little Egypt?
The name “Little Egypt” came from the early settlers of the region, who thought the area resembled the Nile in Egypt due to the low lying topography, fertile marshes, and flooding from the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers.
Where is Little Egypt in Southern Illinois?
Southern Illinois, also known as Little Egypt, is the southern third of Illinois, principally along and south of Interstate 64. Although part of a Midwestern state, this region is aligned in culture more with that of the Upland South than the Midwest.
What is Southern Illinois known for?
This region, which is the oldest in the state, was once the wealthiest region as well and is known for its rich history and antebellum architecture scattered throughout its small towns and cities. Today, Southern Illinois is quickly becoming known for its ever-growing wine country.
What was Egypt's nickname?
To the ancient Egyptians themselves, their country was simply known as Kemet, which means 'Black Land', so named for the rich, dark soil along the Nile River where the first settlements began.
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