Iowais aU.S. statein theMidwestern United States, bordered by theMississippi Riveron the east and theMissouri Riverand theBig Sioux Riveron the west.In colonial times, Iowa was a part ofFrench LouisianaandSpanish Louisiana; its state flag is patterned after theflag of France. After theLouisiana Purchase, people laid the foundation for an agriculture-based economy in the heart of theCorn Belt.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Iowa's agricultural economy made the transition to a diversified economy of advanced manufacturing, processing, financial services, information technology, biotechnology, and green energy production.It is the26th most extensivein land area and the30th most populousof the50 United States. Itscapitaland largest city by population isDes Moines. NicknamedtheHawkeye State,Iowa has been listed as one of the safest states in which to live.