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The source of the Mississippi was a consequential mystery after the Revolutionary War. It remains hotly debated in some circles today. Connie Cox, the lead interpretive naturalist at Itasca State Park, discusses the history and science behind this issue with Curious Minnesota podcast host Eric Roper.

Further reading:

Is Minnesota's tiny Lake Itasca the true source of the Mississippi River?

Could the Mississippi River actually begin in South Dakota?

Minnesota History: Controversy at the Mississippi's headwaters