From its origins as a French fort through conflict, innovation, and industrial revolution, Detroit’s history is defined by war, manufacturing breakthroughs, and the rise of the automobile.

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William Hull was the first Governor of Michigan Territory and when the War of 1812 began was charged with defending it. Narrated by Tom Glynn.

Hull and the 1812 Siege of Detroit

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Ottawa Chief Pontiac laid siege to Fort Detroit in 763 which would last for six months and lead to the three-year long Pontiac’s War. Narrated by Tom Glynn.

Pontiac’s Siege of Fort Detroit

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Once a farming community supplying Detroit, Dearborn is now an international auto manufacturing city and more. Narrated by Imran Sheikh.

Dearborn, More than Just Ford

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Henry Ford significantly changed the way products were manufactured, lowering costs to consumers with a technique now known as Fordism. Narrated by Imran Sheikh.

The Start of Ford Motors & Fordism

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Debuted in 1941, Henry Ford’s plastic car featured a weight-reducing plastic body made from soybeans and hemp. Narrated by Bill Werlin.

Did Ford Make a “Green” Hemp Car?

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His kids jokingly called this Detroit man’s invention a covered wagon because of its resemblance to the old fashioned vehicles. Narrated by Michigan History Magazine.

Sherman Covered Wagons

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This great city began as a French fort in the 18th century and climbed its way to the top of the auto industry, alongside other manufacturing industries. Narrated by Craig Patterson.

Detroit Through the 1800s

From its origins as a French fort through conflict, innovation, and industrial revolution, Detroit’s history is defined by war, manufacturing breakthroughs, and the rise of the automobile.