Challenges of Urbanization

The People: why were the three groups below drawn to cities in the Northeast and Midwest? 

1. Immigrants - Immigrants were drawn to cities in the Northeast and Midwest because cities were the cheapest and most convenient places to live. They also offered great opportunities for steady jobs for unskilled workers in factories and mills.



2. Farmers - 



3. African-Americans  - African Americans were drawn to cities in the Northeast and Midwest such as Chicago and Detroit in an effort to escape racial violence, economic hardship and political oppression. 

The Problems: What was done in response to the following five problems? 

4. Lack of safe and efficient transportation

In response to the problem of lack of safe and efficient transportation, there were many innovations in transit. Street cars and electric subways were introduced to the world.

5. Unsafe drinking water

To address this issue of unsafe drinking water, filtration systems and chlorination were introduced.

6. Lack of sanitation 

Due to the lack of sanitation, sewage lines and sanitation departments were created. Also, private contractors (scavengers) were hired to collect garbage, sweep the streets, and clean outhouses.


7. Fire Hazards

To fix the problem of fire hazards, fire departments were invented, buildings weren't made of wood but rather with inflammable material such as brick, stone, or concrete.