1. Michigan's First Governor
On January 17, 1837, Michigan's first governor, Stevens T. Mason, was inaugurated. Mason was just 24 years old at the time – making him the youngest governor in U.S. history. Despite his youth, Mason proved to be an effective leader, helping to establish Michigan as a state to be reckoned with.

2. Ford Model T Production
On January 17, 1908, the Ford Motor Company introduced the Model T, a revolutionary automobile that changed the face of transportation forever. Over the course of its 19-year production run, more than 15 million Model T's were produced, making it one of the most successful and influential cars in history.

3. The Battle of Frenchtown
On January 17, 1813, the Battle of Frenchtown took place near Monroe, Michigan, during the War of 1812. After a fierce battle, which included brutal hand-to-hand combat, the American forces were defeated by a combined British and Native American army. The battle was a major setback for the U.S. forces in the region, and prompted renewed efforts to drive the British out of the surrounding areas.

4. Michigan and the Emancipation Proclamation
On January 17, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves held in Confederate territory were to be set free. Although Michigan was a Union state, it still had a significant number of residents who were sympathetic to the Confederacy. Nevertheless, the Emancipation Proclamation helped to galvanize Union forces and pave the way for the eventual abolition of slavery.

5. Detroit's First International Auto Show
On January 17, 1907, Detroit hosted its first International Auto Show, featuring the latest and greatest automobiles from around the world. The show was a major success, helping to establish Detroit as the automotive capital of the world. Today, the show continues to be a popular event, showcasing some of the most cutting-edge vehicles and technology in the industry.