Michigan's history began with the arrival of Native American tribes, such as the Ojibwe and Odawa, who inhabited the region for thousands of years. European exploration started in the 17th century, with French explorers like Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet mapping the area. The region became a key part of the fur trade and was later ceded to the British after the French and Indian War. In 1837, Michigan became the 26th state of the United States. The state's economy grew rapidly due to industries like automobile manufacturing, led by pioneers such as Henry Ford. Michigan also played a significant role in the Civil War and the Great Lakes shipping industry, shaping its identity and development over the years.