In the early 20th Century, an exodus of people left southern America for the north, drawn by the explosive growth of the automobile industry. Many came to Pontiac for jobs in the auto plants, and many others brought their labor and skills to help the city grow. With vehicle production as its beating heart, Pontiac offered opportunities that improved people's lives, and in turn they gave back to their community. Union members, tradespeople, and others from many backgrounds rose into positions of leadership, and Pontiac's generations nurtured gifts that were shared with the world. From 1910 to 1930, the auto industry spurred a 500 percent increase in Pontiac's population.