Iowa

The Hawkeye State: An Introduction to Iowa

Iowa, also known as the Hawkeye State, is a midwestern state with a population of just over three million people. The state is bordered by Minnesota to the north, Missouri to the south, Illinois to the east, and Nebraska and South Dakota to the west. Des Moines, the capital and largest city of Iowa, is the hub of commerce, culture and government for the state.

Iowa is famous for its rolling hills, vast farmland and agricultural produce. The state is known as a major producer of corn and soybeans with farming and agriculture contributing heavily to its economy. The state is also home to several historical and cultural landmarks such as the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum and the Bridges of Madison County.

A Diverse Population and Bustling Economy

Iowa's economy, although still dominated by agriculture, has also grown in recent years to include manufacturing and technology startups. Several multinational companies such as John Deere, Rockwell Collins and Principal Financial Group have their headquarters in Iowa, bringing in new job opportunities for its residents.

The population of Iowa is diverse, with the largest group being of German ancestry, closely followed by Irish and English ancestries. The state is also home to a growing Hispanic and Latino population. Des Moines, along with Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, is one of the major urban centers of the state and is host to several annual events such as the Iowa State Fair and the RAGBRAI bike race, which draw people from across the country.