<p>The following is just my opinion. Michigan at one time was a union dominated state (many will argue it still is). The auto industry practically invented and sustained the great middle class that had the been the backbone of our society for over a hundred years. Good wages attracted thousands to the state in the early part of the 20th century. During WWII, Michigan became the, “Arsenal of Democracy” and in a very large way helped make this country victorious over the Nazis. The area was doing very well until the seventies when corporate greed, along with union corruption, started the long decline of the American automotive industry. Factories started to close down and move to other states where the overall business climate was better. There are of course other factor and details, but that is essentially the problem of the state. Michigan has been mostly a one trick pony. When car sales dropped, the state suffered. Nowadays there is little to no loyalty of any manufacturer or any business for that matter that trades publically. Michigan’s golden era is over I’m afraid. Our most valuable resource, talented young people, are leaving the state in droves after graduation from high school and/or college. I hope eventually things might get turned around, but I don’t know if I will live long enough to see when it happens. </p>