"Detroit's Progressive Era (roughly 1890s-1920s) saw the city transform from a primarily industrial hub to a major center of automobile manufacturing, fueled by innovations like the assembly line pioneered by Henry Ford. This era also saw social and political reforms, including Hazen Pingree's mayoral reforms and advancements in transportation, infrastructure, and education." Google search.

Maybe someone should fact-check with a quick Google search before making a meme.

Deindustrialization and the Automotive Industry’s Departure: Detroit’s economy was heavily dependent on car manufacturing. Starting in the 1950s, automakers began relocating factories to the suburbs, other states, and even overseas to cut costs and avoid strong unions. Automation also reduced the need for workers, while foreign competition from countries like Japan and Germany led to further factory closures and job losses.

Population Loss and Suburbanization: The construction of highways and the appeal of suburban living allowed many middle-class and affluent residents-primarily white-to move out of Detroit, a phenomenon known as “white flight.” This migration accelerated after events like the 1967 Detroit riot, which increased racial tensions and prompted even more residents and businesses to leave. As a result, the city’s tax base shrank, leaving behind a poorer population with fewer resources.

Racial Segregation and Social Unrest: Detroit was marked by racial segregation, discriminatory housing policies, and resistance to integration. Black residents often faced overcrowded and substandard living conditions, while urban renewal projects frequently displaced entire communities without providing adequate alternatives. These factors led to social unrest and periodic violence.

Economic Mismanagement and Political Issues: The city struggled with high taxes, inefficient services, and significant portions of its budget going toward pensions and retiree healthcare. Corruption and poor decision-making by city leaders made these problems worse, discouraging new investment and further eroding public trust.

Declining Education and Rising Poverty: Detroit’s education system lagged behind national standards, with lower graduation rates limiting job prospects for residents. As jobs disappeared, poverty rates soared, creating a cycle of decline where the city couldn’t maintain services or attract new businesses.

In summary, Detroit’s decline was not caused by a single event, but by a combination of industrial shifts, demographic changes, racial conflict, and policy failures that together led to economic hardship, population loss, and urban decay.