Indiana is a state located in the Midwest region of the United States. The state has a rich history and is known for its industrial heritage, sports teams, and Hoosier hospitality. With a population of over six million people, Indiana is the 17th most populous state in the US. If you’re planning a visit or moving to Indiana, it’s important to have a good understanding of the state’s geography. Luckily, there are many printable maps of Indiana available online to help you get started.
Printable Map of Indiana
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Indiana is bordered by Michigan to the north, Ohio to the east, Kentucky to the south, and Illinois to the west. The state has a total area of 36,418 square miles, making it the 38th largest state in the US. The state’s geography is characterized by rolling hills, flat plains, and forests.
Indiana is home to several major rivers, including the Ohio River, which forms the state’s southern border with Kentucky. The Wabash River, which is the longest river in Indiana, flows through the western part of the state. Other important rivers in Indiana include the White River, the Tippecanoe River, and the St. Joseph River.
Indiana is also known for its numerous lakes, many of which are popular destinations for fishing, boating, and swimming. Some of the most popular lakes in Indiana include Lake Michigan, Lake Monroe, Lake Wawasee, and Lake Maxinkuckee.
20 Fun Facts about Indiana
- The state’s nickname is “The Hoosier State,” although no one knows for sure where the term “Hoosier” comes from.
- Indiana is the birthplace of the popcorn machine, which was invented by Charles Cretors in 1885.
- The first long-distance automobile race in the US took place in Indiana in 1895.
- The first professional baseball game in the US was played in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1871.
- The world’s first gas pump was installed in Indiana in 1885.
- Indiana is home to the largest children’s museum in the world, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
- The first successful train robbery in the US took place in Indiana in 1866.
- The world’s first successful liver transplant was performed at the University of Indiana Medical Center in 1963.
- Indiana is home to the Indianapolis 500, one of the most famous car races in the world.
- The first electric streetcar in the US was introduced in Indiana in 1888.
- The first high school basketball tournament in the US was held in Indiana in 1900.
- The state’s official flower is the peony.
- Indiana is the only state that has a complete set of active professional sports teams in the “big four” leagues: NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL.
- The first successful test of a gasoline-powered automobile in the US took place in Indiana in 1891.
- The state’s official bird is the cardinal.
- Indiana is home to the world’s largest ball of paint, which weighs over 4,000 pounds.
- The first public school in the US was opened in Indiana in 1821.
- Indiana is the birthplace of several famous musicians, including Michael Jackson, Axl Rose, and John Mellencamp.
- The state’s official tree is the tulip tree.
- Indiana is the only state to have a state park system that began in the 20th century.
Conclusion
Indiana is a unique state with a rich history and a diverse geography. Whether you’re planning a visit or moving to Indiana, having a good understanding of the state’s geography and history can help you appreciate all that this state has to offer. A printable map of Indiana can be a great resource for planning your travels and exploring the state’s many attractions.
