Reasons The Entire Nation Should Be Thankful For Mississippi

With Thanksgiving approaching, it seemed like an appropriate time to come up with reasons to be thankful for the great state of Mississippi. And I have to tell you, there are a lot! From simple inventions to life-changing advancements, here are just a few of the contributions made by Mississippi that are enjoyed by the entire country. You’re welcome, America.

If it weren’t for Mississippi, particularly Phil Gilbert’s Shoe Parlor of Vicksburg, shoes wouldn’t be sold in boxes or even pairs.

Man & His World/Flickr

Mississippi is responsible for the invention of that deliciously bubbly concoction known as Barq’s Root Beer.

Ryan Schreiber/Flickr

And the lovable Teddy bear.

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And the soft toilet seat.

Clean Wal-Mart/Flickr

Mississippi paved the way for the rest of the nation with major medical advancements, such as the first human lung transplant, the first heart transplant, and first kidney autotransplant.

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That piney fresh scent in a bottle, otherwise known as Pine-Sol, is the creation of a Mississippian and is produced only in Mississippi.

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Servicing all 50 states, Greenwood’s Norris Bookbinding Company is the largest Bible repair company in the entire country.

Norris Bookbinding Company/Facebook

The popular hotel chain, Holiday Inn, opened its first franchised location in Clarksdale.

SenseiAlan/Flickr

Hat maker, John B. Stetson, perfected his craft at Dunn’s Falls.

Andrew Reilly/Flickr

Approximately 70% of the nation’s catfish comes from Belzoni, the “Catfish Capitol of the World.”

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

For over 100 years, Lumberton has been the home of The Bass Pecan Company, one of the largest pecan nurseries in the world.

Bass Pecan Company/Facebook

These are just a portion of the contributions made by Mississippi. What are some other reasons to be thankful for the state? Tell us in the comments section below!