Memphis

Memphis is a major city in the southwestern corner of the U.S. state of Tennessee, located on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River. It is widely recognized as the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll and remains a cultural, transportation, and economic hub in the Mid-South region.

Overview

Founded in 1819 by land speculators including future President Andrew Jackson

Named after the ancient capital of Egypt along the Nile

Largest city in Tennessee until the early 21st century

Music and Culture

Beale Street – a historic strip of clubs and music venues that shaped American music

Sun Studio – where legends like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King recorded

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Graceland – home of Elvis Presley, one of the most visited homes in the U.S.

History

Key site in the American Civil Rights Movement

National Civil Rights Museum is housed in the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968

Played major roles in the cotton and steamboat economies of the 19th century

Economy

• Historically known for shipping, cotton, and music

• Modern economy includes logistics (home of FedEx), healthcare, education, and tourism

• Port of Memphis is one of the largest inland ports in the U.S.

Education

• University of Memphis

• Rhodes College – a liberal arts school with a scenic gothic campus

• Major medical schools and research institutions

Transportation

• Memphis International Airport (MEM) – global cargo hub for FedEx

• Major highways: I-40, I-55, and I-69

• Amtrak and freight rail connections

Fun Facts

• Memphis barbecue is world-renowned, especially its dry-rub ribs

• Hosts the annual World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest

• “Memphis” means “Enduring and Beautiful” in ancient Egyptian

See Also

Tennessee

Southern States

United States Cities