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Joplin, Missouri

A city defined by resilience, Joplin was built on lead and zinc mining wealth along Route 66, then devastated by a catastrophic EF5 tornado in 2011 that killed 158 people — the deadliest single tornado in America since 1947. The city's remarkable rebuilding became a national story of community strength.

Founded 1871 | Population 51,000 | Peak 51,000 (2024) | County Jasper/Newton County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Joplin, Missouri

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1871Founded: Joplin was established at the center of the Tri-State Mining District for lead and zinc.

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1903Mining Peak: Joplin became the lead and zinc capital of the world, producing much of the nation's supply.

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1926Route 66: Route 66 was established running through Joplin, bringing travelers and commerce through the city.

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1943Bonnie & Clyde: Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow had a famous shootout with police at an apartment in Joplin.

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2011EF5 Tornado: An EF5 tornado killed 158 people and destroyed one-third of Joplin — the deadliest U.S. tornado since 1947.

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Latest News in Joplin

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Complete Historical Timeline

1871 Industry

Founded

1903 Industry

Mining Peak

1926 Transport

Route 66

1943 Crime

Bonnie & Clyde

2011 Disaster

EF5 Tornado

Did You Know?

2011 EF5 tornado killed 158 — deadliest since 1947.

Route 66 passes through Joplin.

Was 'Lead and Zinc Capital.'.

Joplin is located in Jasper/Newton County, Missouri.

Joplin was founded in 1871.

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