Provo, Utah was founded in 1849 by Mormon settlers led by Brigham Young. The city was originally called Fort Utah, after the military fort that was established to protect the settlers from Indian attacks. In 1850, the name was changed to Provo, in honor of French-Canadian trapper Etienne Provost. Provo quickly grew into a prosperous farming and trading community, thanks to its fertile land and strategic location along the Old Spanish Trail. By the late 19th century, Provo had become a bustling hub for commerce and industry, with thriving businesses such as wool mills, canneries, and a booming railroad industry. In the early 20th century, Provo became known as a center for education and innovation, with the establishment of Brigham Young University in 1875 and the opening of the Provo Steel Works in 1942. Today, Provo is a vibrant city known for its strong economy, beautiful natural surroundings, and tight-knit community.