Iowa turns 163 years old today. Iowa became the 29th state on this date in 1846. Now listed as one of the top ten safest states in which to live, according to insurance company data, Iowa is often referred to as the “American Heartland” and as the “Food Capital of the World.”
After the Louisiana Purchase around the turn of the century, French colonial settlers laid the foundation for an agriculture-based economy in what’s termed “The Heart of the Corn Belt.” Iowa’s economy has transitioned to a diversified economy of advanced manufacturing, processing, financial services, biotechnology, and now green energy production. Governor Culver touts Iowa as a leader in wind energy.
By Kristan Gray, KMA, Shenandoah