a major river of North America that flows from the US state of Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico . It was called the ‘Father of Waters’ by Native Americans . It is 2 348 miles/3 778 kilometres long and passes the cities of Minneapolis , St Louis , Memphis and New Orleans . The Missouri River is connected to it, and together they form the third largest river system in the world (3 741 miles/6 019 kilometres long). The Mississippi is an important transport route and is known for its 19th-century river boats.
See also Ol’ Man River .