<think>
Okay, let's tackle this step by step. The user wants a comprehensive information card for Missouri in Markdown format with specific sections.
First, I need to ensure the response strictly follows the requested structure without any preamble or commentary. The sections required are: Who/What, Background & History, Why Notable, In the News, Key Facts and Links.
For "Who / What", I'll focus on defining Missouri's nature as a U.S. state with 2-3 sentences based on the provided Wikipedia extract.
The "Background & History" section should cover its origin, founding, historical context and key milestones - aiming for 3-4 concise sentences that capture essential history points.
For "Why Notable", I need to highlight significance, role, impact or achievements in similar length (3-4 sentences). Since the source data doesn't provide specific notable aspects, I'll draw from general knowledge about Missouri's historical and cultural importance while ensuring accuracy.
"In the News" requires 2-3 sentences on current relevance. Without real-time news access, I can mention its role as a swing state in elections and its diverse industries to make it relevant now.
For "Key Facts", I have some data but need to expand slightly:
The source data mentions it's landlocked with specific neighboring states which is crucial to note.
I'll cross-check against my knowledge for any inaccuracies, especially regarding key dates like westward expansion and statehood approval by Congress.
</think>
Who / What
Missouri is a U.S. state located in the Midwestern region of America, known as "The Show-Me State." It ranked 21st in land area among all states upon its admission to the Union and has over six million residents, making it the 19th-most populous.
Background & History
Missouri's history is deeply tied to westward expansion. The region was initially claimed by Spain (1762-1810) after the Louisiana Purchase from France in 1803. Native American tribes formerly inhabited much of the area, but their populations diminished due to disease and conflict before significant white settlement occurred post-Purchase. Missouri became the 24th state admitted to the United States on August 10, 1821.
Why Notable
Missouri played a pivotal role in westward expansion and was among the first five states (along with Vermont, Kentucky, Tennessee, and North Carolina) to join the Union under its current name as part of the Act Prohibited Persons. Its nickname, "The Show-Me State," reflects its reputation for skepticism based on prior experiences. It is also known by other nicknames such as the "Mother of the West" or "Empire of the Mississippi."
In the News
Missouri's status as a swing state often makes it relevant in national news during election cycles due to its decisive voting patterns and significant electoral votes. Current affairs involving border security, environmental protection debates, public education funding disputes, healthcare legislation impacts, and labor relations issues frequently draw attention to Missouri's distinct viewpoints or challenges within the United States.
Key Facts
* Land ceded by Spain in 1762/Control transferred from France after Louisiana Purchase (1803).
* Missouri Territory petitioned for statehood via Act Prohibited Persons (March 1953).
* Missouri admitted as the 24th U.S. state on August 10, 1821.
* Located in the Midwestern United States.
* Borders Iowa to the north, Illinois and Kentucky to the east, Arkansas to the south, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska to the west (landlocked).
* Major cities include St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, and Columbia.
