Illinois_usgs2.jpg
Illinois geology and topography map courtesy of USGS: A Tapestry of Time and Terrain.
What does "Illinois" mean?
According to native-languages.org, the name Illinois is derived from the native American word "Illiniwek," which is the tribal name of the Illini tribe. Literally, the name means "best people."
Many state names originate from native American languages. All State Name Origins
Illinois
