Iconic Moments In U.S. History You Forgot Happened In Michigan

So many notable things from U.S. history have happened right here in Michigan.

Historical images from the world have a way of burning themselves into your memories. For example, if you mention a white Bronco in conversation, most people immediately think of the O.J. Simpson chase. There are many stories out there that stay in our minds forever and several of them happened right here in Michigan.

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While you may remember the stories themselves, you may not remember that those stories happened here in Michigan. From iconic moments in sports to top new stories back in the day. The stories below stick out in U.S. history, but not all people remember that they happened in Michigan.

The Nancy Kerrigan Attack

Most people remember when Nancy Kerrigan was attacked and clubbed in the knee after leaving the ice at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. However, some may forget that the attack occurred at Cobo Arena in Detroit.

The Passing of Chris Cornell

The iconic singer, songwriter, and musician, Chris Cornell passed away on May 18th, 2017 in room 1136 at MGM Grand in Detroit. Cornell was found lying on the bathroom floor with an exercise band around his neck just hours after his show with Soundgarden at the Fox Theatre. 

Bloody Wednesday

One of the most intense and iconic hockey brawls ever took place on the ice at Joe Louis Area in Detroit on March 26th, 1997. This game tallied up a staggering 18 fighting major penalties earning players 144 minutes in the penalty box. Also known as “Bloody Wednesday,” “Fight Night at the Joe,” and “Brawl in Hockeytown,” this brutal battle even saw Wings goaltender Mike Vernon and Avalanche goaltender Patrick Roy exchanging blows on the ice.

A Yugo Was Blown Off a Bridge

Many Michiganders have heard the story of a Yugo compact car getting blown off the Mackinac Bridge, however, that may be nothing more than just an urban legend. According to the Mackinac Bridge Authority, the vehicle was estimated to be traveling at 60 mph. Even though the wind could have been a contributing factor, it was not the main cause of the car going over the railing.

Hulk Hogan Slams Andre the Giant

Even people that are not fans of wrestling probably can picture Hulk Hogan bodyslamming Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III. Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant with Bobby “The Brain” Heenan in his corner and Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse “The Body” Ventura on commentary. WrestleMania III is one of the most memorable event in WWE history and it all took place on March 29th, 1987 at the Pontiac Silverdome. 

Detroit Pistons - Indiana Pacers Brawl

Another iconic brawl in sports history took place in Michigan as well. One of the biggest NBA brawls in history happened at The Palace of Auburn Hills between the Detroit Pistons and the Indiana Pacers. The Malice at the Palace caused nine players to get suspended, some received assault charges, and more.

County Sheriff Goes Viral for Bringing Police and Protesters Together

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson made headlines across the nation when he and area police officers took their helmets off and put down the batons to walk with protestors through Flint, Michigan.