Final answer:
The state with the Appalachian Mountains in the east and the Cumberland Plateau in the southwest is Tennessee, which holds historical significance for migration patterns.
Step-by-step explanation:
The state that has the Appalachian Mountains crossing the east and the Cumberland Plateau at an elevated region in the southwest is Tennessee. The Appalachian Mountains are a significant physical feature in eastern North America, running from the Canadian Maritime south through the United States and extending into the central part of Tennessee. The Cumberland Plateau, part of the Appalachian Plateau, stands in the southwestern region of the state. This geography provides insights into historic migration patterns, where people moved across these natural barriers and influenced the cultural development of the area. Tennessee's position along the Appalachians and its Cumberland Plateau has played a vital role in the state's history and development.