Introduction to Life in The City

Cities as we know them today began their birth in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This period was a time of major industrialization, immigration, and urbanization for the United States. This burst of population created many of the major cities known today. With the rapid growth of the city came many challenges, some of these being a place to live for all these people and the health issues that would come from overcrowded living environments. Due to overcrowding the cities were no longer able to grow wider, so they grew taller. This led to the development of the first skyscrapers, the back drop to many sky lines today. For the wealthy, the over populated living conditions and health concerns forced many to leave the city and move to the suburbs, made possible by the streetcars. Many of Americas’ favorite past times came into existence during this time; people were taking time to enjoy life and each other.

Come take a journey with us through our blog, to explore city life in the early years.

Please see: The Cities by Laura Kueker

Unfortunately, life was not always fresh and clean. Crowded apartments and horrible working conditions brought many hardships to many immigrants. Many of the immigrants were forced to live in tenements, with multiple families living in the same area. Due to the rapid growth, cities had issues with providing basic needs such as clean water and plumping. This lead too many diseases such as diphtheria and cholera.

Please see: Tenements by Marlene Huntsman

Please see: Health Issues by Krystal Antunez

With the city population busting at the seams, there was no other place to go, than up! With the use of steel beams builders were now able to create buildings that reached new heights and that would one day become landmarks to most cities of today.

Please see: Skyscrapers by Twyla Jackson

The over population of the city took its toll on many people. With the fear of unsanitary living conditions, and being tired of the over crowdedness in the city, many middle and upper class people fled the city and began the development of the suburbs. This move was possible because of the streetcar, which allowed this group of people to work in the city, but escape to the suburbs to live.

Please see: Streetcar Neighborhoods by Shannen Rimando

During this time of change, life was stressful for everyone; however people came together and took part in many different activities. Many of today’s activities termed “Americas favorite past time,” were started during the late 1800s and early 1900s. These different activities allowed people from all walks of life to come together and enjoy life.

Please see: Leisure Activites by Kristine Dygert