why is it called the midwest

The term "Midwest" originated because the region was once considered the westernmost part of the United States in early American history, specifically referring to the Northwest Territory. People knew it wasn't the westernmost part of the continent, but it was "mid" relative to the original colonies and the vast land further west. Over time, as the U.S. expanded westward, the name stuck and came to represent a central region between the eastern states and the far west, encompassing the area between the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains and north of the Ohio River. The concept of the Midwest has also become synonymous with the American heartland, representing a more rural and traditional America with farming and strong values.