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Fur Trade
The first French fur traders began to come into contact with Native Americans in the Midwest. What were some of the causes and effects of fur trading in the Midwest? -
Exploration
Louis and Clark began their travel across the Midwest. Their journey took them all the way to the Pacific Ocean. They made their journey by water. Why do you think they chose a water route? -
Hey Chicago, what do you say?
Chicago became a city. It was a great place to do business because of the waterways. It is now the largest city in the Midwest and the 3rd largest city in the United States. -
John Deere
John Deere produces his first steel plow in Grand Detour, Illinois. From that point on, farming would never be the same in the Midwest. -
All Aboard!
The first railroad that allowed people in Chicago to ride to St. Louis was up and running. -
Go Des Moines!
The capital of Iowa moves from Iowa City to Des Moines. This made the capital more centralized. -
It's a dirty job, but somebody has to do it.
Coal Mining becomes a major industry in the Midwest. This work brings many new settlers to the land. Coal mining was dangerous work and by 1940, many coal mines had been shut down. Mr. Cubit's grandfather was a coal miner. Does your family have any coal mining history? -
Flap Your Wings
The Wright Brothers (known as the inventors of airplanes) demonstrate their flying machine to the citizens of Dayton, Ohio. -
Start Your Engines!
Henry Ford builds the Model-T in Detroit. The Model-T is the first affordable car for Midwesterners. -
Feeling the Heat!
The hottest day recorded in the Midwest was in Steele, North Dakota. It reached a scortching 121 degrees! -
On the Road Again...
Interstates (large, usually straight highways) began popping up all over the Midwest. For the first time, Midwesterns felt like they could travel across the country without the dangers of the old highway system. Have many of you have been on Interstate 80 or 35? -
We Hit the Target
In Minnesota a brand-new store opens its doors. Who would have thought a small Midwestern department store would grow to such a large company? Target is born! How many of you have shopped at a Target? -
Burrrrrrrrr!!!!!!
The coldest day in the Midwest was in Tower, Minnesota. It dropped to a whopping negative 60 degrees. It gives me chills just thinking about it! -
Floods and Tornadoes sweep Iowa
In the summer of 2008, Iowa is hit with major storms that cause serious damage. Cedar Rapids' flooding is still affecting the city today. Parkersburg is devistated by an F5 tornado.
