From 1805 until 1847, Detroit was the capital of the young state of Michigan. The city was a port of trade and industry that soon became the motor capital of the world. In the early 20th century, the city was booming and stronger than ever.
But since then, Detroit has lost its flair, gaining instead a stigma as a city of crime and desolate buildings. And Detroit was dealt a serious blow a few years ago when the worst economic depression since the Great Depression stripped the American auto industry of any semblance of economic stability. This came at a disastrous time for Detroit politically as well, as Kwame Kilpatrick, one of the most corrupt politicians in Detroit’s history, was ending his tenure as the city’s mayor.
As a result of the economic woes, Michiganians began moving out in high numbers, trying to find work in other states because Michigan seemed like an economic sinkhole.
But after all the difficulties it has faced, Detroit is rebounding.
The Big Three automotive companies are recording profits after their financial bailout by President Barack Obama, and the assembly line that Detroit became famous for is back in motion.
Companies, such as Twitter and GalaxE.Solutions, are opening offices in Detroit and employing hundreds of young professionals who are looking to reinvent the city.
And with the Detroit Tigers reaching the World Series, Detroit now has a chance to show the world it is an up-and-coming city that should be considered for investment.
It’s true, the city is freckled with abandoned buildings that aren’t aesthetically pleasing to first-time visitors, but those who are from the Detroit metropolitan area and most Michigan residents know Detroit has more potential than its reputation gives it credit for, and many areas of the city actually are well-maintained and safe.
Reinventing Detroit will not be easy. It will take a strong commitment and cooperation from businesses and local politicians to get the city back on track.
Detroit is known for having issues of corruption and greed with its politicians, especially recently. The city cannot move forward without elected officials who are committed to rebuilding a once-great city rather than their own personal interests.
The popular Pure Michigan advertisements highlight possible tourist destinations for Michigan residents, showcasing Michigan’s beautiful beaches and cultural landmarks. In the same way, Detroit needs to start its own advertising campaigns for businesses, showing the city is rebounding and worthy of investment. All eyes will be on Detroit during the next couple of weeks as the Tigers play in the World Series, and Detroit should capitalize on this as a chance to market itself.
Others call it a crime-ridden city and an economic sinkhole, but Michiganians call it the Motor City, Hockeytown and, most simply, “The D.”
Detroit helped Michigan become an economic powerhouse during the 19th and 20th centuries. Now, after one of its biggest economic collapses, Detroit is rebuilding and rebranding itself as one of America’s greatest cities.
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