Who were the original inhabitants of the Michigan region?

The original inhabitants of the Michigan region were the Native American tribes. These tribes, including the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi, lived in what is now Michigan long before European contact. They developed rich cultures, languages, and lifestyles that were closely tied to the natural environment, relying on the land and waterways for resources like food, shelter, and transportation. Their social structures, traditions, and histories are integral to understanding the region's heritage.

While other groups like the British, French settlers, and Spanish explorers played significant roles in Michigan’s later history, they arrived after the Native American tribes had already established their communities there. The indigenous peoples had diverse ways of life and deep connections to the land, making them the true original inhabitants of the area long before any European influences emerged.