Jefferson is the state capital of Missouri. It is situated on the southern bank of the Missouri River, not far from the mouth of the Osage. Jefferson was originally a small village, but it became of importance when it was chosen for the state capital in 1821. Five years later the legislature moved there from St. Charles. Because of divided loyalties and the difficulties of holding the state in the Union, Jefferson City was occupied by Union troops during the Civil War.

The Italian-Renaissance capitol was completed in 1917. Its façade was covered in Carthage marble and it also features murals by Thomas Hart Benton and N. C. Wyeth. The capitol is the site of the Missouri state museum. In Jefferson you will also find the Lincoln University, the state penitentiary and a national cemetery.

The state government is the major employer, but the city, with rail and river facilities, is also the commercial and processing center of a large agricultural area. Industries include printing, bookbinding and the production of shoes, clothing, electrical appliances and metal goods.

Accommodation and restaurants are available in Jefferson. The city is 1325 km west of Washington D.C.