Much of Duluth's early development can be credited to the fur traders who explored the area and dealt with the local Native tribes, namely the Ojibwe. By the early 19th century, settlements had been established alongside trading posts.

A land rush occurred in the mid-19th century, and construction begun on various waterways. Soon after, Duluth was connected with the Twin Cities metro thanks to a new road. However, dwindling copper resources led to a major exodus of the local miner population. 

Ultimately, the access of the city's major port, as well the approaching railroad, led many to the area. Duluth's timber industry boomed, and the city began to rapidly grow. Duluth was dealt another major blow with a stock market crash and nearly disappeared, but was ultimately revived thanks to the persevering mining and lumber industries. By the turn of the 20th century, Duluth was one of the busiest places in the country and was home to the most millionaires per capita.