New Books in History Theodore J. Karamanski, "Great Lake: An Unnatural History of Lake Michigan" (U Michigan Press, 2026)
Jan 6, 2026
Theodore J. Karamanski, a historian and professor specializing in the environmental history of the Great Lakes, discusses his new book on Lake Michigan. He explores the deep connections between human history and the lake, from Indigenous peoples' sustainable practices to the drastic changes brought on by Euro-American settlement. Karamanski highlights the lake's evolving role—from a vital resource to a recreational hub—while examining the ecological impacts of invasive species and climate change. He advocates for real-world engagement with the lake to inspire stewardship and protection.
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Lake Formed With People Present
- Theodore J. Karamanski frames Lake Michigan as a landscape shaped alongside humans since its formation by retreating glaciers.
- That human-lake interaction makes its history occur on human timescales rather than deep geologic time.
Indigenous Stewardship Versus Market Views
- Karamanski contrasts Indigenous spiritual stewardship with an ecological view that recognizes limits and carrying capacity.
- He argues Indigenous rituals supported sustainable use rather than systematic overexploitation.
Beaver Loss Transformed Streams
- Karamanski recounts how European fur trade demand drove beaver near-extirpation and altered stream ecology.
- Loss of beaver dams increased sediment flows and degraded fish spawning habitat, compounded later by logging.
