The term "Midwestern" was coined in the 19th century to describe a central region of the United States that needed a new classification as the nation expanded. It emerged to define an area previously referred to by the outdated "Northwest Ordinance" designation, and it captures a unique segment of America that doesn't fit neatly into traditional directional categories.
The Genesis of the Term
Before the 19th century, much of what is now known as the Midwest was simply referred to as the states falling under the Northwest Ordinance. This ordinance, established in 1787, laid the framework for the governance and settlement of the vast territory north of the Ohio River and east of the Mississippi River. However, as the United States continued its westward expansion, eventually reaching the Pacific Coast, the original "Northwest" designation became geographically inaccurate and obsolete for these central states.
To address this evolving geographical understanding, a new term was needed. "Midwest" was introduced in the 19th century to accurately reflect this collection of states that formed a central, rather than northwestern, part of the country relative to the nation's new boundaries.
A Region Beyond Simple Directions
The Midwest isn't merely a geographical midpoint; it represents a unique cultural and economic identity. It's often described as a part of America that stands distinct from the East Coast, the Deep South, or the far West. This distinctiveness contributes to its "Midwestern" designation, implying a region that is:
- Neither North nor South: While some states border Canada and others are closer to the Mason-Dixon line, the region collectively transcends these traditional divides.
- Neither East nor West: It lies inland, far from the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, establishing its own identity apart from the coastal influences.
This unclassifiable nature, combined with its central location, solidified the adoption of the term "Midwest." It became the accepted descriptor for a region that holds a vital position in the nation's heartland, distinct from the historical and geographical contexts that once defined it.
Regional Naming Evolution
The shift from older regional terms to "Midwest" reflects the dynamic nature of a growing nation.
| Era | Former Term/Concept | Current Term | Reasoning for Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Late 18th Century | Northwest Ordinance Territory | N/A | Established framework for early western expansion |
| 19th Century Onward | Old Northwest (outdated) | Midwest | US expanded to Pacific; "Northwest" no longer accurate for central states; defines a unique central identity. |
Today, the Midwest region is officially recognized and defined by various governmental bodies, including the U.S. Census Bureau, encompassing states like Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. This continued recognition underscores the endurance and appropriateness of the "Midwest" label.
