Three centuries ago A French explorer nanmed Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac landed on the banks of the Detroit River. A fort was established in 1701. In 1760, French rule gave way to British, And in 1796 the Americans took over Detroit as a result of Jay's Treaty. Detroit became a city in 1815 and spent the decades leading up to the Civil War as the final U.S. stop on the Underground Railroad.Detroit become the Motor City when Henry Ford built his first car in Detroit. During the early part of the 20th century, dozens of companies came to the area,committed to finding success in the new industry. During World War II, the factories they built to produce cars were put to use churning out weapons for the Allied Powers. The production edge they provided helped to win the war. Detroit's other famous 20th century contribution Motown. Founded by Berry Gordy Jr. with just an $800 loan, the upstart record company introduced the world to Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Smokie Robinson, the Temptations, Diana Ross and others all of whom either grew up or gained their first fame in Detroit.