72 | Viking Explorer Society News
Five Fascinating Facts About the
MISSISSIPPI RIVER
The Mississippi River is a living symbol of America's natural and cultural heritage.
Its vast waters connect history, wildlife, and vibrant communities, offering Viking
guests a unique window into the heart of the United States.
The river's name reflects its majesty
The name "Mississippi" originates from the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) word Misi-ziibi, meaning "Great River."
Indigenous peoples, including the Choctaw, Sioux, and Natchez, relied on the river long before European
explorers arrived. For centuries, it has been a lifeline for trade, travel and sustenance, embodying its role as one
of the most iconic rivers in the world.
