Rapid Urbanization in Late 19th-Early 20th Century America: Challenges and Solutions

Abstract

Growth of Cities in the Late 19th and Early 20th Century in America Urbanization and Its Challenges Industrialization and immigration enhanced the growth of cities or, in better terms, urbanization in America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The location of many factories near urban areas during this period characterized industrialization in that many people developed the urge to relocate and settle in these growing areas for job opportunities. Between 1870 and 1920, over ten million people migrated from rural to urban areas, among other immigrants from outside America, moving into the United States and occupying the nation's cities. Most immigrants during this period came from northern and western Europe, including Ireland, Scandinavia, and Great Britain. However, new immigrants from eastern and southern Europe also became among the most influential forces in American life during this era. The availability of these increasing factories within the urban or near urban areas attracted immigrants and people from the rural areas to the cities, leading to the rapid growth of such cities. Although urbanization came along with the development of these American cities and a boost of the American economy due to the availability of labor in the newly formed industries, over-population in these cities, as many people tried their luck in these greener pastures, became a disturbing challenge. Pollution, crime, and diseases also became prevalent problems in these over-populated cities leading city planners to seek rapid solutions to remedy the arising challenges. To control infectious diseases like cholera, yellow fever, and typhoid, which wave thousands of innocent lives, city planners introduced sewage pumping systems to ensure efficient waste management. The introduction of tenement houses also came in response to over-population in tiny houses with poor ventilation that proved hazardous to human well-being. Churches and civic organizations...