Michigan was born of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787, written at the culmination of the American Revolution. The document carved out the land that was to be divided into no more than 5 and no fewer than 3 territories.
Of equal importance were the terms, two of which were firsts in legal history: no slavery was allowed and there was a provision for free public education. Michigan became a separate territory in 1805.
The War of 1812 began to mold the character of Michigan. The “Toledo War” brought the struggle to an end, with Michigan giving up claims in Ohio and gaining most of the Upper Peninsula. The “Boy Governor”, Stevens Mason, fought for statehood which was achieved in 1837, after the “Frostbitten Convention” held in Ann Arbor.
This Study Group for those 50 and over will be held on Friday 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. October 5.