Hennepin County: A Minnesota Leader

Hennepin County s history has been shaped by geography. Bordered by the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers a natural draw for the Dakota and the Ojibwe, missionary explorers and fur traders, soldiers and farmers it has been a place of inspiration, exploration, and achievement. Here, author Tina Rubin tells the compelling story of how Hennepin County grew from a settlement by the St. Anthony Falls to the largest county in Minnesota. The region long ago established itself as a national forerunner. It is home to Minneapolis Saint Paul International Airport, one of the nation s busiest airports. It is the site of the flagship campus of the University of Minnesota, one of the nation s most prestigious institutes of higher learning. And it boasts Mall of America, the largest shopping center in the 50 states. It is now set to introduce the most advanced baseball stadium in the country, Target Field, the new home of the Minnesota Twins. Visionary leadership, sound fiscal management, and a talented and well-educated populace have helped shape this vibrant county into a potent landscape for entrepreneurs across the board. The county is home to Fortune 500 companies (more than 20 are headquartered here) and small start-ups. Its diverse economic portfolio includes bioscience and health care, professional services and clean technology, manufacturing and food processing, and transportation and energy. The county s dynamic economy is complemented by an equally desirable quality of life, whether one lives in the great city of Minneapolis, a quiet suburb, or a rural village. Excellent health care and education systems, abundant outdoor activities, and one of the most vibrant arts scenes in the nation add to the county s appeal. Hennepin County: A Minnesota Leader is a tribute to the county s bold entrepreneurial spirit and its continuing desire to explore new frontiers.