Scots began settling in North America in the earliest colonial days. They were heavily involved in the Great Lakes region's major industries, as these evolved from fur trade to farming and lumbering to industry. From early settlement to the industrial revolution Scots brought to the state a pioneer spirit and an extraordinary level of education. Though rendered almost invisible both by clustering under the umbrella of the British Commonwealth and by the fact that few Scottish traditions are considered whatsoever foreign, ethnic, or exotic, Scottish influences run deep in Michigan history and culture. From ice hockey to industry, much of what represents Michigan has roots that