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The Social Effect Of The Chicago Fire Of 1871

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In the year of 1871, an enormous fire raged across the city of Chicago, Illinois and had many effects on the social, economic, and political aspects of the city both immediately and later in the city’s life such as 100,000 families were left homeless, 200,000,000 dollars in property damage, and a variety of fire-protection reforms, including a ban on wooden buildings in the business district.
The summer before the fire, there was little rain. This caused the ground and plants to be very brittle and dry, making them more prone to catch on fire. The story that was believed until recently stated that on October 8th, a cow kicked over a lantern in a barn and started the fire. Other theories that were not as widespread were that humans or even a meteor might have been responsible. As time went on, theorists and historians alike disproved and brought up theories that some people still believe today. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 burned for more than twenty-four hours. Firemen could not get to all the burning areas of the city at the same time, so the fire had to be put out in sections. Fires in buildings that were already cleared started again causing more problems.
The 1871 Chicago Fire had many social …show more content…

The politics and laws within the city and other states changed. Fire safety week and other precautions are now taken in Chicago areas, and all over the country. Social status and the ability to move socially occurred due to the fire. Since so many new buildings and businesses were created after the fire, families were able to climb the social ladder. The economy plummeted and rose from the ashes. The two hundred million dollar loss was devastating to all of Chicago, but today the city is thriving. If not for the fire in 1871, we may not have many of the businesses or buildings that so many love today. All of these events and laws due to the fire that America will not

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