| Capital | |
| Geography | Diverse |
| Largest City | |
| Key Industries | Aerospace • Renewable Energy • Logistics |
| Other Major Cities | |
| Geographical Region | Midwestern United States |
| Prominent Universities | Several research institutions |
Illinois is a state located in the Midwestern United States, known for its diverse geography, thriving industries, and role as a transportation hub. With a population of over 12 million people, it is the 6th most populous state in the country.
Illinois spans a wide range of geographic features, from the Great Lakes region in the north to the flat, fertile farmlands of the central part of the state. The northern portion features hilly terrain and dense forests, while the southern regions are characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and wetlands.
The state's climate is continental, with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Chicago, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, experiences moderately cooler temperatures than the rest of the state due to its proximity to the lake. Illinois is also prone to severe weather events like thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flooding, especially in the spring and summer months.
Illinois was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Illiniwek, Kickapoo, and Potawatomi, before the arrival of European settlers in the 17th century. The state was part of the French colonial territory of New France before being ceded to the British in the 1760s.
After the American Revolution, Illinois became part of the Northwest Territory and was admitted to the United States as the 21st state in 1818. The state's early economy was dominated by agriculture, with crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat being major exports.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Illinois experienced rapid industrialization, becoming a hub for manufacturing, transportation, and technology. The discovery of oil and the arrival of the transcontinental railroad helped transform cities like Chicago and Rockford into major economic centers. However, unlike in our timeline, the motion picture industry did not establish a strong presence in the state, leading to a more diverse economy.
Chicago is the largest city in Illinois and a major economic hub, serving as a center for manufacturing, logistics, and renewable energy research and production. However, the city's cultural influence is less pronounced than in our timeline, with other cities like St. Louis, Indianapolis, and Rockford playing more prominent roles.
Springfield, the state capital, is home to the Illinois state government and a thriving healthcare and technology industry. Rockford, in northern Illinois, is a significant manufacturing and aerospace center, hosting major facilities for companies like Boeing and Lockheed Martin.
Illinois' economy is diverse, with key sectors including:
The state is also home to several prestigious universities, such as the University of Illinois, Northwestern University, and the Illinois Institute of Technology, which have played important roles in scientific research and innovation.
Illinois' cultural landscape reflects its diverse population and history. Chicago, while less dominant than in our timeline, remains a hub of arts, music, and cuisine, with influences from its various immigrant communities. Other cities like Peoria and Champaign also boast thriving cultural scenes.
The state has a long tradition of labor organizing and social activism, with movements for civil rights, environmentalism, and workers' rights playing significant roles in its history. Illinois is also known for its progressive political climate, with the University of Chicago often at the forefront of important social and political debates.
While Illinois may not have achieved the same level of global prominence as in our timeline, the state remains a vital economic and cultural force within the Midwestern United States. Its contributions to fields like manufacturing, transportation, and renewable energy have had a lasting impact on the region and the country as a whole.
The state's legacy as a hub of innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social progress continues to shape its trajectory, as Illinois navigates the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
