What major economic shift has contributed to Detroit's decrease in population?

The major economic shift that has contributed to Detroit's decrease in population is deindustrialization. This process involves the decline of manufacturing industries, which were once the backbone of Detroit’s economy. During the mid-20th century, Detroit thrived as a hub for automobile manufacturing, attracting a large workforce. However, as manufacturing jobs began to decline due to automation, foreign competition, and the movement of factories to other regions or countries, many workers lost their jobs. This loss of employment opportunities led to widespread economic instability, prompting residents to abandon the city in search of better job prospects elsewhere.

The impact of deindustrialization on Detroit was profound, resulting in a significant population loss as individuals and families left for suburban areas or other cities with more robust job markets. The shift not only affected the local economy but also had social implications, contributing to urban decay and a decrease in municipal resources.