Michigan’s capital is Lansing
Name:
The word Michigan originally referred 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 state later took the name of the clearing as well.
Wisconsin’s capital is Madison
Name:
This state was named after the Wisconsin River. Wisconsin means “grassy place” in the Chippewa language.

Illinois capital is Springfield
Name:
The state of Illinois was named after the Illinois River. The river was named by French explorer Robert Cavelier Sieur de La Salle in 1679 after the Indians he found living along the banks.
Illinois is the French spelling for the Illinois and Peoria Indian word “iliniwok,” meaning men or warriors and perhaps referring to members of the Illinois tribe.
Ohio’s capital is Columbus
Name:
The state of Ohio is named after the Ohio River. Ohio is the name that the Iroquois Indians used when referring to the river and means “large” or “beautiful river.”
Indiana’s capital is Indianapolis
Name:
Indiana was the name given to the Indiana Territory by the United States Congress when Indiana was created from the Northwest Territory in 1800.
It means “Land of Indians.”