Michigan: State Unit Study

We live smack dab in the middle of Detroit Michigan and it can be a lot of fun with so many things to do even if January is dull and cold. From the Detroit Zoo to Eastern Market there is so much to engage the children.

Michigan is located in the Midwest region of the United States, bordered by Lake Michigan to the west, Lake Huron to the north, Lake Erie to the south, and the Canadian province of Ontario to the east. The state’s capital is Lansing and the largest city is Detroit.

Basic Facts About Michigan

:: Michigan is a state located in the Midwest region of the United States.

:: It is bordered by the Great Lakes of Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Lake Erie.

:: The state capital is Lansing, and the largest city is Detroit.

:: Michigan is known for its automotive industry, particularly the “Big Three” automobile manufacturers (Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler).

:: The state is also known for its abundance of fresh water resources, including the Great Lakes and numerous inland lakes and rivers.

:: The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is known for its abundant natural beauty, including forests, waterfalls, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

:: The state is also home to a number of universities, including the University of Michigan and Michigan State University.

:: Michigan was admitted to the Union as the 26th state on January 26, 1837.

Fun Facts about Michigan

:: Michigan is the only state in the US that has two peninsulas, the Upper Peninsula and the Lower Peninsula.

:: The Great Lakes together make up the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world by total area.

:: Michigan has more than 11,000 inland lakes and more than 36,000 miles of streams and rivers.

:: Michigan is known as the “Great Lakes State” and “Water Wonderland”

:: The state is home to the world’s longest freshwater shoreline, thanks to the Great Lakes.

:: The Mackinac Bridge, which connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan, is the longest suspension bridge between anchorages in the Western Hemisphere.

:: Michigan is the home to the world’s largest tire, located in Allen Park. It is 80-feet tall and weighs more than 17,000 pounds.

:: Michigan is the leading producer of blueberries in the United States and also produces more than half of the tart cherries grown in the US.

:: Michigan is home to the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, located in Frankenmuth.

:: Michigan is known for its craft beer, with over 400 breweries and brewpubs across the state.

Videos for your Michigan Unit Study

Geography and Climate

Location and boundaries:

Physical features:

The state is home to the Great Lakes, forests, and many state parks, including Isle Royale National Park and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The state also has a varied topography with the lower peninsula being mostly flat and the upper peninsula being more hilly and mountainous.

Climate and weather patterns:

Michigan has a moderate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are generally cold and snowy, while summers are warm and humid. The state is also prone to lake-effect snow in the winter.

History

Native American tribes and early explorers

Michigan was originally home to many Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Huron. The first European explorer to visit Michigan was the French explorer Étienne Brûlé in the early 17th century.

European colonization and the state’s role in American history

Michigan became a part of the United States in 1783 as a result of the Treaty of Paris. The state played a significant role in the development of the American automobile industry, with Detroit becoming known as the “Motor City.”

Key events and figures in the state’s history

Some key events in Michigan’s history include the War of 1812, the rise of the automobile industry, and the 1967 Detroit riots. Notable figures from Michigan include Gerald Ford, Henry Ford, and Stevie Wonder.

Government and Economy

Major industries and economic drivers

Michigan is known for its automotive industry, with major automobile manufacturers like Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler being based in the state. Michigan is also a leading producer of furniture and agricultural products.

Demographics and population trends

Michigan has a population of approximately 10 million people and is considered a diverse state, with a large African American population in Detroit and a large Arab American population in Dearborn.

Culture and Society

Overview of the state’s culture and traditions

Michigan is known for its Great Lakes culture, which includes a strong connection to the water and the outdoors. The state is also known for its strong blue-collar and working-class culture.

Famous people and landmarks from the state

Notable figures from Michigan include Gerald Ford, Henry Ford, Stevie Wonder, and Bob Seger. Landmarks include the Henry Ford Museum, the Motown Museum, and the Mackinac Bridge.

Arts and entertainment scene in the state

Michigan has a thriving arts and entertainment scene, with major cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor hosting a variety of music, theater, and dance events.