The nicknames for Michigan are the “Great Lakes State” and the “Wolverine State.”
Origin of Nicknames
The “Great Lakes State” nickname originates from Michigan bordering four of the five Great Lakes.
Some believe that the nickname “Wolverine State” was given by Ohioans during a land dispute in 1835, claiming that Michiganians were as vicious as wolverines, which led to the Toledo War. Another version suggests that Native Americans compared settlers to wolverines for their greedy land-taking behavior.
Official Symbols
- State flower: Apple blossom
- State bird: American robin
- License plates: From 1969-1975 and 1977-1983, Michigan license plates read “Great Lake State.”
Name Origin
The name Michigan comes from the Native American word “Michigama,” meaning “big lake” or “great water,” referring to Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes. Michigan borders four of these Great Lakes.
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