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Early Michigan History: Eras and Events

By nicolem19

  • Europeans arrive in Michigan

    Etienne Brule of the French claimed land and began to trade with the indigenous people.

  • First European settlement is established

    This was permanently established by Father Jacques Marquette at Sault Ste. Marie.

  • Detroit is founded

    Detroit is founded as Fort Pontchartrain by Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac to secure fur trade.

  • Seven Years' War begins

    Also known as the French and Indian War

  • The French surrender to the English

    This is the end of French power in Michigan.

  • Treaty of Paris 1763

    France loses possession of mainlands due to the British's victory over them in the war.
  • Period: to

    Pontiac's Rebellion

    The Natives fight the British.

  • Creation of Northwest Territory

    The land that included Michigan today became a part of the Northwest Territory.

  • Michigan Territory is created

  • Capture of Detroit and Fort Mackinac

    British forces captured them early on in the War of 1812.

  • Return of Detroit

    Americans took back the city of Detroit during the war.

  • Fort Mackinac was returned

    At the end of the war, Americans regained control of Fort Mackinac.

  • Treaty of Saginaw

    Native lands are ceded to settlers. This forces the natives farther west.

  • Erie Canal opens

    This provided easier travel to Michigan and the population grew.
  • Period: to

    Toledo War

    Michigan and Ohio both claimed jurisdiction over a piece of land named the Toledo Strip. Michigan ended up giving this up for the Upper Peninsula.

  • Michigan becomes the 26th state

    Michigan is admitted to the Union.