Why are there two Kansas Citys?

Kansas City is actually one metropolitan area consisting of two separate cities: Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas. The cities are located on the Missouri-Kansas border, with the Missouri River separating them.

The two cities were founded independently of each other in the 1830s. Kansas City, Missouri, was founded in 1838 by John Calvin McCoy and was named after the Kansas River, which flows into the Missouri River. Kansas City, Kansas, was founded in 1850 and was originally named Wyandotte. The city was renamed Kansas City in 1886 to avoid confusion with another city in Kansas called Wyandotte.

Although the two Kansas Citys are separate cities, they have a close relationship and share many resources and amenities. The cities are home to a variety of businesses, including the Kansas City Chiefs NFL team and the Kansas City Royals MLB team. The cities also have a number of cultural attractions, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

Despite their close ties, the two Kansas Citys do have some differences. Kansas City, Missouri, is the larger of the two cities, with a population of over 450,000. Kansas City, Kansas, has a population of just over 150,000. The cities also have different political climates. Kansas City, Missouri, is more liberal, while Kansas City, Kansas, is more conservative.

Overall, the two Kansas Citys are two distinct cities with their own unique identities. However, they share a rich history and culture and have a strong relationship that benefits both cities.