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First settled by the French in the 17th century, the U.S. acquired the Missouri territory with the Louisiana Purchase in 1802, later entering the Union as part of the Missouri Compromise of 1820.

With the coming of the Civil War, Missouri was a hotbed of contention and split allegiances between North and South, sometimes even within families. However, the state remained in the Union while supplying troops to both U.S. and Confederate armies.

The state was also the main depot for 19th century settlers making their way out west, with Independence, Missouri beginning the first leg of the Santa Fe Trail, and St. Joseph, Missouri serving as the jumping off point for the Pony Express.

Owing to its colorful past, Missouri is a top draw for tourists and visitors throughout the Midwest to such attractions as Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, the Harry S. Truman home and library in Independence, the Pony Express Museum and Jesse James Museum in St. Joseph, along with spectacular musical variety shows featured in Branson.

More about Missouri travel & tourism around the Web:

Welcome to Missouri - The official travel site with guides to where to go & what to do, restaurants & hotels, outdoor activities, event calendar, trip ideas, travel tips, maps & weather information.

America's Byways - Missouri - Information & photos on Blue Buck Knob Scenic Byway, Cliff Drive, Glade Top Trail, Great River Road and other scenic drives throughout the state.

Branson Missouri Chamber of Commerce - One of the Missouri's top entertainment attractions with the latest news & information on live shows, festivals & events, hotel & restaurant guides, camping & RV parks, shopping, & kid friendly attractions.

Branson Missouri for Kids - The complete guide for Branson family fun with information on theaters and events, attractions, day trips, money saving tips, suggested reading.

Experience Kansas City - What's happening, as well as upcoming events, a look at the gardens, the zoo, riverboat casinos, shopping, hotels & restaurants, with suggested travel itineraries, photo tour, maps.

Explore St. Louis - Extensive informatoin on bed & breakfast inns, campgrounds, hotels & restaurants, neighborhood maps & guides, nightlife, riverboat casinos, major attractions, family fun, day trips, maps & photos.

St. Louis Gateway Arch - The iconic symbol of St. Louis with information on its history, hours of operation, tram ticket purchase, fun FAQ.

Missouri Summer Travel Calendar: