City of Lake and Prairie: Chicago's Environmental History

Chicago's environmental history is a compelling, innovative, and deeply researched study of the city's natural advantages, economic opportunities, and global connections, from Native Americans to urban dwellers. It reveals a rich but often troubled landscape shaped by communities of color, workers, and activists, as well as complex human relations with industry, waterways, animals, and disease.

Format: Hardback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2021
Publisher: University of Pittsburgh Press

Chicago, often referred to as the Windy City and the Hog Butcher to the World, has rightfully earned a more fitting sobriquet: City of Lake and Prairie. This captivating, innovative, and thoroughly researched environmental history showcases the city's remarkable transformation over centuries. Situated at the southwestern tip of Lake Michigan, one of the largest freshwater bodies in the world, and on the eastern edge of the expansive tallgrass prairies that dominate much of the North American interior, early inhabitants of the land that Chicago now occupies enjoyed a multitude of natural advantages, economic opportunities, and global connections. From the Native Americans who first inhabited the region to the urban dwellers who built a metropolis in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, these same features shaped the city's unique identity. As one millennium came to an end and a new one began, these same characteristics ignited a distinctive Midwestern environmentalism aimed at preserving local ecosystems.

Drawing on the interdisciplinary expertise of its contributors, this volume unveils a rich but often troubled landscape shaped by communities of color, workers, and activists, as well as complex human relations with industry, waterways, animals, and disease.

The city's location on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan provided a natural harbor, making it an ideal location for trade and commerce. The Chicago River, which flows into the lake, was a vital transportation hub, facilitating the movement of goods and people throughout the region. The tallgrass prairies, on the other hand, provided fertile soil for agriculture and a habitat for a diverse range of plant and animal species.

However, the city's growth and development also brought with it a series of environmental challenges. Industrialization and urbanization led to pollution, deforestation, and habitat loss, as industries and factories released harmful pollutants into the air and water. The construction of highways and other transportation infrastructure fragmented natural habitats, leading to the decline of many species.

In response to these challenges, a distinctive Midwestern environmentalism emerged in the mid-20th century. This movement was led by a diverse group of individuals, including scientists, activists, and community organizers, who recognized the importance of preserving local ecosystems for the benefit of both human and natural communities.

One of the key achievements of this movement was the establishment of the Chicago Wilderness, a protected area that spans over 2,000 acres in the city's suburbs. The Chicago Wilderness is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species such as the bald eagle, whooping crane, and black-crowned night heron. The area also serves as a vital migratory route for birds and other wildlife, connecting them to other natural habitats in the region.

In addition to the Chicago Wilderness, the Midwestern environmentalism movement also led to the creation of other protected areas and green spaces throughout the region. These spaces include the Lake Michigan shoreline, which is home to a diverse range of marine life, and the Cook County Forest Preserve, which is one of the largest forest preserves in the United States.

The Midwestern environmentalism movement also focused on promoting sustainable practices in industry and agriculture. This included advocating for renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, and promoting organic farming practices that minimize the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers.

Despite these achievements, the Midwestern environmentalism movement has faced challenges over the years. One of the biggest challenges has been the opposition from industries and other stakeholders who argue that environmental regulations and protections are unnecessary and hinder economic growth.

Despite these challenges, the Midwestern environmentalism movement continues to thrive. Today, the region is home to a vibrant community of environmentalists, scientists, and activists who are working to protect local ecosystems and promote sustainable practices.

In conclusion, Chicago's environmental history is a testament to the city's resilience and adaptability. From its early Native American inhabitants to its modern-day metropolis, the city has evolved in response to a series of environmental challenges. The establishment of the Chicago Wilderness and the creation of other protected areas and green spaces have played a crucial role in preserving local ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices.

However, the Midwestern environmentalism movement faces ongoing challenges, and it will require continued dedication and collaboration from all stakeholders to ensure that the region's natural resources are protected for future generations. As we look to the future, it is clear that Chicago will continue to play a vital role in shaping the global conversation on environmental sustainability and conservation.

Weight: 726g
Dimension: 161 x 239 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780822946311