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History

In order to understand today’s cities and development; one has first to comprehend how the past cities developed. History defines the past and how it’s different from today. In the 1850s Chicago central developed tremendously through various engineered projects which included building of sidewalks, streets and buildings among others. This work was funded by private owners and public funding with a goal of increasing economic growth and development.

Creation of Capital City/Financial Centre

Capital City of any nation is a key to economic development of a nation. The elevation of Chicago was not much in the 19th century due to lack of proper drainage. The city surface lacked proper drainage presenting a lack of good living conditions. People feared that the stagnant water and bad drainage would pose a danger to their health. Fear of water borne diseases and epidemic was the major fear of the Americans.

However, in 1856 the engineers took the drainage problem seriously. The engineers drafted a sewerage system which was accorded. The workers commenced the laying down of drains covered and renovated the sidewalks with soil. Construction of most buildings, modern followed. In 1858, the main masonry structure in Chicago was constructed. This building was so busy that it raised partnerships and increased trade in Chicago. What followed next was the massive elevation of buildings in Chicago and increased urbanization.

Enhancement of National Unity

This city was designed as a recreational area which was located in the Greater Grand Crossing and Woodlawn community areas from the 1905 to 1950s. In 1905, White city was the largest park ever in the United States. White City is the largest park drew many Americans in Chicago who was in search of recreational facilities. This contributed to Chicago status and increased national unity as many events in the White City brought people together. The White City had various features which included various gardens and strolling paths. Moreover, the building had a tower, which was visible from far and attracted many tourists in the region. The White City increased the National Income and National Unity.

The White City was having several buildings which had white lights from which the park gained the name. The White City hosted various agricultural and industrial exhibitions in the region. Most of the Historic constructions were not long lasting though they were impressive.

Beautification

The river flowed into Lake Michigan, which contained sewerage and other water pollutants. The polluted water posed danger to the health of many in Chicago who suffered from typhoid. However, in the 1871 much of the river was diverted into the Michigan canal and across the Chicago Portage. In 1900, the river was completely reversed by use of series of canal. The river had a foul smell which was not attractive and shied away people and investors in the region. After diversion of the river the area was then occupied by people who developed it. Beautification is very important for economic development.

Economic Boom

Development of Chicago downtown meant the possibility of expansion of trading centre. The completion of Michigan and Illinois Canals in the 1840s created ease in transportation. Good transport system encouraged much trade, though later the water transport was replaced by railroads. The constructed railroads increased the popularity of Chicago in America since most of rail freight in the United States passes through Chicago.

The increased transportation in Chicago was an initiative to aid transportation in the region. The canal project was undertaken to divert flow of the Chicago River, which caused health issues, but it ended up bringing up more additional benefits.