Essay On Chicago Fire Of 1871

The Chicago Fire of 1871 In the 19th century, the population in Chicago was quickly rising to great numbers. In 1850, population reached a great 30,000. Areas in all parts of Chicago started to become extremely over crowded especially downtown. At this point, all structures were built out of wood including buildings, streets, and even sidewalks (“Chicago Fire of 1871”). About one hundred days before the great fire occurred, not even an inch of rain had fallen throughout the city, and heavy, strong winds were blowing through Southwest. Fires were a very common obstacle at the time, but nothing was even close to the fire of 1871. On October 8th, firemen received a call from the neighbor of Catherine O’Leary. Neighbors reported seeing a number of flames appearing from the cow barn. Firemen instantly spotted the fire but miscalculated how big it really was. This event became historically known as the Chicago Fire of 1871 (“People 7 Events”). The three effects of the Chicago Fire of 1871 were the financial and political

Not only did the people struggle, but so did the areas surrounding them. Everything was in horrific shape. Charities were created to help support families who had lost everything, and also to help raise money for reconstruction. A Relief Committee was set up to assist people. The committee was given a task to organize and distribute food, supplies, and money to all those in distress. Contributions for almost everything came in from around the world totaling up to almost $5,000,000. The political economy made sure that even though the main focus was on reconstruction, that men were continuing to receive fair retirement. They were also determined to keep the doors open and full of opportunities for future young men. “On one side we see men of some years disheartened and retired from productive exertion. On the other, we see places opened for younger men” (“Political Economy of the