Who founded the settlement that became Chicago?
Jean Baptiste Point du Sable established a trading post on the western shore of Lake Michigan in 1780. He is now recognized as the Founder of Chicago.
Questions about Chicago
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When was the City of Chicago officially incorporated?
The City of Chicago was officially incorporated on Saturday, the 4th of March 1837. This event followed the organization of the Town of Chicago by 1833 with only about 200 residents.
What happened during the Great Chicago Fire on the 8th of October 1871?
The Great Chicago Fire destroyed several square miles of the city and left over 100,000 people homeless while at least 300 people died. Railroads and stockyards survived intact despite the devastation of wooden structures.
How did Chicago contribute to steel production during World War II?
Chicago alone produced more steel than the United Kingdom every year from 1939 to 1945. It also produced more steel than Nazi Germany from 1943 to 1945.
Who became the first black mayor of Chicago and when?
Harold Washington became the first black mayor in 1983. He directed attention to poor and previously neglected minority neighborhoods.