Louisville, Kentucky was founded in 1778 by George Rogers Clark and is named after King Louis XVI of France. The city played a crucial role in the early days of American history, serving as a strategic location for settlers and traders moving westward. In the 19th century, Louisville became a major hub for river commerce due to its location on the Ohio River, with steamboats transporting goods and passengers up and down the river. The city also developed a strong manufacturing industry, producing products such as whiskey, tobacco, and textiles. During the Civil War, Louisville was a key Union stronghold in the border state of Kentucky, and played a significant role in the war effort. After the war, the city continued to grow and prosper, becoming known for its horse racing industry, with the famous Kentucky Derby held annually at Churchill Downs. Today, Louisville is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, known for its bourbon distilleries, historic architecture, and thriving arts scene.