The name "Michigan" originally was uused to refer to a clearing on the lower peninsula and was derived from the Chippewa Indian word "majigan" which means clearing. Lake Michigan was named after this clearing by European explorers in the area in the 1670's. The name stuck and became the official name of the state.

Three mottoes embelish the deep blue background of the Michigan state flag which was adopted in 1911. On a red ribbon reads, "One Nation Made Up of Many States"
On a blue shield on the center of the flag states, "I will Defend"
On a white ribbon along the bottom of the design is written, "If You Seek a Pleasant Peninsula, Look Around".

On the blue shield the sun rises over a lake and peninsula, a man with a raised hand is holding a rifle which symbolizes peace and the ability to defend his rights. The elk and moose positioned on either side of the shield are symbols of Michigan, while the eagle between them, above the shield represents the our nation.