Archie Hayes 
St. Louis is an independent city that marks the eastern border of Missouri in the United States of America. It is pronounced as /seɪnt ˈluːɪs/.
Table: Geographic and Demographic Information
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Longitude | -90.1994° |
| Latitude | 38.6270° |
| Climate | Humid Continental |
| Population | 318,172 (As of July 2012) |
| GDP | $155.4 billion (Metropolitan Area, 2019) |
| Official Language | English |
| Currency | United States Dollar (USD) |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian |
| Continent | North America |
Historical Context of St. Louis
Founded in the year 1764 by Pierre Laclède and Auguste Chouteau, St. Louis was named in honor of King Louis IX of France, who is also canonized as Saint Louis in Catholicism.
Demographics and Population
According to data from July 2012, St. Louis was home to approximately 318,172 people. The 2010 U.S. Census ranked it as the 58th most populous city in the United States.
The Greater St. Louis Metropolitan Region
St. Louis is also the central hub of a much larger metropolitan area, commonly known as Greater St. Louis. This larger zone is the 15th largest metropolitan area in the United States, with a population that was estimated to be around 2,795,794.
Economic Profile of St. Louis
The economy of St. Louis is diverse, encompassing sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, education, and technology. As of 2019, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the St. Louis metropolitan area was valued at approximately $155.4 billion.
Cultural Significance and Landmarks
St. Louis is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, featuring numerous museums, art galleries, and parks. The Gateway Arch stands as an iconic symbol of the city and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding region.
Educational Infrastructure
St. Louis is a significant educational hub, hosting a range of universities and colleges. Among them, Washington University in St. Louis is a noteworthy institution that is highly ranked nationally.
Transportation and Connectivity
St. Louis boasts an extensive transportation network that includes the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport for air travel, and well-laid road and rail systems for internal and external commuting.
Climate and Weather Patterns
The climate in St. Louis is categorized as a humid continental type, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Snowfall is not uncommon during the winter months, and temperatures in the summer can exceed 90°F.
Religious Landscape
While Christianity is the dominant religion in St. Louis, the city is also home to other religious communities, including Jews, Muslims, and Hindus.
By delving into various facets of St. Louis, from its historical establishment to its current-day status in terms of population, economic activity, cultural landmarks, and more, we obtain a well-rounded view of this important American city.
