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