Illinois

Illinois was admitted to the union in 1818 as the 21st state. Illinois was home to several Native American tribes prior Europeans coming to the area. These included the Illini, from whom the state took its name. The Mississippian culture flourished in the area from about 650 CE to1050 CE. The Cahokia Mounds in Southern Illinois are the site of this culture.

For an overview of the history of Native Americans and the French and English settlement of the state, visit www.tolatsga.org/ill.html. President Ronald Reagan was born in Illinois and President Abraham Lincoln lived much of his life in Illinois. The capitol, Springfield houses the Lincoln Presidential Library.

Chicago

The state's largest city, Chicago, was the site of the Columbian Exhibition in 1893. Chicago is internationally known and is home to several colleges and universities. The best known are probably The University of Chicago, Northwestern, and University of Illinois Chicago. For a complete list of colleges and universities in the state visit: www.chicagoeducation.com/chicago-colleges-universities.html

Graduate Education

For a list of degrees available from Illinois institutions, visit: www.ibhe.org/BHEProgram
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Illinois has over 180 colleges and universities. The state system is known throughout the world. It is composed of nine universities on twelve campuses. The oldest state university, Illinois State University, is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2007.

Every field of knowledge and study is represented in these schools. With some, like the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, being home to Nobel laureates in their fields.

Culture in Illinois

Illinois offers a rich array of recreational, social and cultural activities. The Southern part of the state is home to Shawnee National Forest and offers a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Chicago offers a very rich array of activities including the Shed aquarium, The Museum of Science and Industry, The Chicago Art Museum and many, many more. The various colleges and universities in the state offer cultural activities. For lists of many of these activities, visit: www.enjoyillinois.com/