List of cards and descriptions
Battle of Fort Dearborn
The Battle of Fort Dearborn (sometimes called the Fort Dearborn Massacre) was an engagement between United States troops and Potawatomi Native Americans that occurred on August 15, 1812.
State of Illinois admitted into the Union
Illinois became the 21st U.S. state. The capital remained at Kaskaskia, headquartered in a small building rented by the state. In 1819, Vandalia became the capital, and over the next 18 years, three separate buildings were built to serve successively as the capitol building.
Black Hawk War
The Black Hawk War was a conflict between the United States and Native Americans led by Black Hawk, a Sauk leader. The war erupted after Black Hawk and a group of Sauks, Meskwakis (Fox), and Kickapoos, known as the "British Band", crossed the Mississippi River, into the U.S. state of Illinois, from Iowa Indian Territory in April 1832.
Chicago incorporated as a city
On August 12, 1833, the Town of Chicago was organized with a population of about 200.Within seven years it grew to more than 6,000 people. On June 15, 1835, the first public land sales began with Edmund Dick Taylor as Receiver of Public Monies. The City of Chicago was incorporated on Saturday, March 4, 1837.
Chicago’s First Theater Company
The establishment of Chicago’s first local theater company in 1837 marked a significant cultural milestone, bringing entertainment to the growing city.
Free Schools Established
In 1840, Chicago took a pivotal step with the establishment of free schools, emphasizing a commitment to education and accessibility for all residents.
First Issue of Chicago Tribune
Founded in 1847, the Chicago Tribune is a daily newspaper owned by Tribune Publishing. Formerly self-styled as the "World's Greatest Newspaper", it remains the most-read daily newspaper of the Chicago metropolitan area and the Great Lakes region.
Chicago Board of Trade Founded
Founded in 1848, the Chicago Board of Trade played a crucial role in shaping the city's economic landscape, serving as a hub for commodity trading and contributing to Chicago's emergence as a financial powerhouse.
First City Hall Completed
In 1848, Chicago achieved a milestone with the completion of its first City Hall, providing a central administrative hub for the city's growing population and establishing a foundation for municipal governance.
Telegraph Reaches Chicago
The arrival of the telegraph in 1848 revolutionized communication in Chicago, connecting the city to a broader network of information and facilitating rapid exchanges crucial for economic and social development.
Chicago Police Department Formed
The formation of the Chicago Police Department in 1855 was a pivotal step in maintaining law and order in the rapidly growing city, contributing to the safety and security of its residents.
Lager Beer Riots
The Lager Beer Riots of 1855 reflected cultural and social tensions in Chicago. Residents protested against perceived threats from German immigrants and their brewing practices, highlighting the diverse challenges faced by the city during this period.
Chicago Historical Society Founded
Founded in 1856, the Chicago Historical Society has been a key institution in preserving and sharing the rich history of the city, serving as a valuable resource for residents and researchers alike.
Abraham Lincoln Nominated at Chicago's First National Convention
In 1860, Chicago hosted its first national convention, where Abraham Lincoln was nominated for the presidency. This historic event played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape and solidifying Chicago's influence.
Camp Douglas Becomes a Confederate Prisoner of War Camp
In 1862, Camp Douglas became a Confederate prisoner of war camp, symbolizing Chicago's role in the Civil War and the city's contribution to the Union effort in confining Confederate soldiers.
Chicago Union Stockyards Completed
The completion of the Chicago Union Stockyards in 1865 marked a significant milestone in the city's industrial and economic development, solidifying its position as a major hub in the meatpacking industry.
Field and Leiter Open a Store (Later Marshall Fields) at State Street and Washington Avenue
In 1868, the opening of Field and Leiter's store at State Street and Washington Avenue laid the foundation for what would later become Marshall Field's, a landmark in Chicago's retail history.
Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens Founded
Established in 1868, Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens became a beloved institution, providing residents with a place to appreciate and connect with the animal kingdom, contributing to the cultural fabric of Chicago.
Chicago Water Tower Built
The construction of the Chicago Water Tower in 1869 was a significant engineering achievement and a symbol of resilience, as it survived the Great Fire of 1871, becoming an iconic landmark in the city.
The Great Fire
The Great Fire of 1871, though devastating, led to the rebirth of Chicago. The reconstruction efforts showcased the city's resilience and determination, ultimately contributing to its rapid growth and development.
Montgomery Ward Publishes the First Mail-Order Catalog
In 1872, Montgomery Ward revolutionized retail with the publication of the first mail-order catalog, providing customers across the nation access to a wide array of goods and shaping the future of consumerism.
John W.E. Thomas Becomes the First African American Elected to the Illinois General Assembly
In 1876, John W.E. Thomas made history as the first African American elected to the Illinois General Assembly, paving the way for greater representation and advocacy for the African American community in Chicago.
Railroad Strike
The Railroad Strike of 1877 in Chicago was a significant labor movement that highlighted the challenges faced by workers. The strike contributed to the ongoing discourse on workers' rights and labor conditions in the city.
Telephone Service Begins in Chicago
In 1878, the introduction of telephone service in Chicago revolutionized communication, connecting residents and businesses in unprecedented ways, fostering a more interconnected and dynamic urban environment.
Art Institute of Chicago Founded
Founded in 1879, the Art Institute of Chicago became a cultural cornerstone, providing a space for artistic expression and appreciation. Its impact on the city's cultural scene remains profound.
Haymarket Riot
The Haymarket Riot of 1886 was a defining moment in the labor movement, with repercussions for workers' rights globally. This event marked a pivotal chapter in Chicago's history and its role in the fight for labor rights.
Auditorium Building Dedicated
The dedication of the Auditorium Building in 1889 marked a cultural and architectural triumph for Chicago. Designed by Louis Sullivan and Dankmar Adler, it became a symbol of the city's innovation and artistic excellence.
Jane Addams Founds Hull House
In 1889, Jane Addams founded Hull House, a pioneering settlement house that provided essential services and support to immigrant communities. Addams' work laid the foundation for social reform in Chicago.
Inaugural Concert of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
The inaugural concert of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 1891 was a cultural milestone, establishing Chicago as a hub for classical music. The orchestra's legacy continues to enrich the city's cultural identity.
Provident Hospital Begins Service to African Americans in Chicago
In 1891, Provident Hospital began providing crucial medical services to the African American community in Chicago. Its establishment marked a significant step toward addressing healthcare disparities in the city.
Columbian Museum of Chicago (Field Museum of Natural History) Founded
Founded in 1893, the Columbian Museum (now the Field Museum of Natural History) became a center for scientific exploration and education. Its contributions to the understanding of natural history are integral to Chicago's intellectual landscape.
Mayor Carter Harrison Assassinated
The assassination of Mayor Carter Harrison in 1893 was a shocking and tragic event that left a lasting impact on Chicago politics. His legacy is remembered as a pivotal figure in the city's history.
World's Columbian Exposition
The World's Columbian Exposition of 1893 showcased Chicago's innovation and cultural richness on the world stage. The fair left a lasting legacy, shaping the city's architecture and cultural identity.
Pullman Strike
The Pullman Strike of 1894 was a pivotal moment in labor history, illustrating the struggles of workers against unfair labor practices. The strike had a profound impact on labor laws and activism in Chicago.
John Crerar Library Opens
The opening of the John Crerar Library in 1897 marked a significant addition to Chicago's intellectual landscape. It became a vital resource for scientific and technological research, contributing to the city's academic prominence.
Chicago Butter and Egg Board (Later Chicago Mercantile Exchange) Founded
Founded in 1898, the Chicago Butter and Egg Board (later the Chicago Mercantile Exchange) played a crucial role in shaping the city's financial landscape. It became a global hub for commodity trading.
Flow of the Chicago River Reversed
The reversal of the Chicago River in 1900 was a monumental engineering feat that addressed sanitation concerns and shaped the city's landscape. It remains a testament to Chicago's innovative urban planning.
Chicago Freight Tunnels
The construction of Chicago's freight tunnels in 1901 revolutionized the city's transportation and logistics. The tunnels played a crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods and further solidified Chicago as a transportation hub.
First Trunnion Bascule Bridge Opens
The opening of the first trunnion bascule bridge in 1902 improved transportation and connectivity in Chicago. This innovative engineering solution became integral to the city's infrastructure.
Iroquois Theater Fire
The tragic Iroquois Theater Fire of 1903 highlighted the need for improved safety standards in public spaces. The event spurred changes in fire safety regulations and procedures in Chicago.
Ravinia Park Opens
The opening of Ravinia Park in 1904 provided Chicagoans with a scenic escape and cultural venue. Over the years, Ravinia has become synonymous with outdoor concerts and artistic performances.
Chicago Defender Debuts
The debut of the Chicago Defender in 1905 marked a significant moment in African American journalism, amplifying the voices and perspectives of the community. The newspaper played a crucial role in advocating for civil rights.
Garfield Park Conservatory Opens
The opening of the Garfield Park Conservatory in 1908 provided Chicagoans with a lush and educational environment. The conservatory has since been a cherished oasis and educational resource in the city.
Burnham's Plan of Chicago
Daniel Burnham's Plan of Chicago in 1909 laid the groundwork for the city's urban development. The plan emphasized organized and beautiful city planning, influencing Chicago's growth and architecture.
Grant Park Declared “Forever Open, Clear and Free"
The declaration of Grant Park as "Forever Open, Clear and Free" in 1909 solidified the park's status as a public space for recreation and cultural events. This commitment has shaped Chicago's commitment to green spaces.
Comiskey Park Opens
The opening of Comiskey Park in 1910 marked the beginning of an era for Chicago baseball. The stadium became a beloved venue for sports enthusiasts and played a key role in the city's sports history.
Union Stock Yards Fire
The Union Stock Yards fire of 1910 was a tragic event that highlighted the challenges of industrial and agricultural operations. The incident led to improvements in safety regulations and practices.
City Hall Dedicated
The dedication of Chicago's City Hall in 1911 marked a significant moment in municipal governance. The building became a central hub for civic affairs, reflecting the city's commitment to effective administration.
Wrigley Field Opens
The opening of Wrigley Field in 1914 was a historic moment for Chicago sports. The stadium has since become an iconic venue, hosting generations of baseball fans and cultural events.
Eastland Disaster
The Eastland Disaster of 1915 was a tragic maritime incident that profoundly impacted Chicago. The event led to increased safety regulations for passenger ships and heightened awareness of maritime safety.
Oscar DePriest elected the first African American alderman
In 1915, Oscar DePriest's election as the first African American alderman marked a significant milestone in the city's political history, paving the way for increased representation and civil rights activism.
Balaban and Katz movie theaters founded
The founding of Balaban and Katz movie theaters in 1916 played a key role in shaping Chicago's entertainment landscape, contributing to the city's reputation as a cultural hub for film and the performing arts.
Municipal Pier (later Navy Pier) completed
Completed in 1916, Municipal Pier, later known as Navy Pier, became a waterfront landmark, offering recreational and cultural activities that have made it an enduring symbol of Chicago's lakefront.
Chicago White Sox win the World Series
The Chicago White Sox's World Series victory in 1917 brought joy to the city and its baseball fans, showcasing the team's prowess and contributing to the rich sports legacy of Chicago.
Black Sox Scandal
The Black Sox Scandal of 1919 tarnished Chicago's baseball reputation, as members of the White Sox were accused of intentionally losing the World Series, leading to significant repercussions for the sport.
Race Riots
The Race Riots of 1919 were a tragic chapter in Chicago's history, marked by racial tensions and violence, highlighting the urgent need for social and racial justice in the city.
Chicago Cardinals awarded the NFL championship
In 1925, the Chicago Cardinals being awarded the NFL championship brought sports glory to the city, solidifying its reputation as a hub for athletic achievement.
Grant Park Stadium (Soldier Field) opens
The opening of Grant Park Stadium (later Soldier Field) in 1925 marked a new era for sports and entertainment in Chicago, providing a venue for major events and shaping the city's skyline.
Union Station completed
The completion of Union Station in 1925 enhanced Chicago's status as a transportation hub, connecting the city to the nation and facilitating the movement of people and goods.
Buckingham Fountain dedicated
Dedicated in 1927, Buckingham Fountain became a symbol of beauty and grandeur in Chicago's Grant Park, attracting visitors with its impressive design and water displays.
Municipal Airport (Midway) opens
The opening of Municipal Airport (later Midway) in 1927 marked a milestone in aviation history, providing a key transportation hub and contributing to Chicago's growth as a major city.
Chicago Stadium opens
The opening of Chicago Stadium in 1929 became a center for sports and entertainment, hosting iconic events and contributing to the cultural fabric of Chicago.
St. Valentine's Day Massacre
The St. Valentine's Day Massacre in 1929 was a notorious event that left an indelible mark on Chicago's history, highlighting the city's association with organized crime during the Prohibition era.
Adler Planetarium and Astronomical Museum dedicated
The dedication of the Adler Planetarium and Astronomical Museum in 1930 marked a leap forward in scientific education and exploration, establishing Chicago as a leader in astronomy.
Merchandise Mart opens, becoming the world's largest building
The opening of the Merchandise Mart in 1930 solidified Chicago's status as a global business hub, with the building becoming a landmark and a testament to the city's economic strength.
Shedd Aquarium opens
The opening of Shedd Aquarium in 1930 enriched Chicago's cultural offerings, providing a world-class facility for aquatic education and conservation in the heart of the city.
Jane Addams wins Nobel Peace Prize
In 1931, Jane Addams' Nobel Peace Prize win brought international recognition to Chicago, highlighting the city's commitment to social reform and peace efforts.
Chicago Bears win the NFL championship
The Chicago Bears' NFL championship win in 1932 added another accolade to the city's rich sports history, solidifying Chicago as a powerhouse in professional football.
Mayor Anton Cermak assassinated
The assassination of Mayor Anton Cermak in 1933 was a tragic event that had profound implications for Chicago's political landscape, marking a turning point in the city's history.
Museum of Science and Industry opens
The opening of the Museum of Science and Industry in 1933 became a beacon of education and innovation in Chicago, offering interactive exhibits and inspiring generations of learners.
A Century of Progress
The "A Century of Progress" World's Fair in 1933-34 showcased technological advancements and cultural achievements, putting Chicago at the forefront of innovation and progress.
Brookfield Zoo opens
The opening of Brookfield Zoo in 1934 provided Chicagoans with a world-class zoological experience, contributing to the city's cultural offerings and commitment to wildlife conservation.
Chicago Blackhawks win Stanley Cup
The Chicago Blackhawks' Stanley Cup win in 1934 added another triumph to the city's sports legacy, showcasing Chicago as a hockey powerhouse.
22 local park districts merge to become the Chicago Park District
In 1934, the merger of 22 local park districts to form the Chicago Park District marked a significant step in the city's commitment to public recreation and green spaces.
Chicago Housing Authority established
The establishment of the Chicago Housing Authority in 1937 signaled a commitment to addressing housing challenges and promoting equitable living conditions in the city.
Memorial Day Incident at Republic Steel
The Memorial Day Incident at Republic Steel in 1937 was a tragic event that highlighted tensions between labor and management, contributing to the broader labor movement in Chicago.
First self-sustaining controlled nuclear chain reaction
The first self-sustaining controlled nuclear chain reaction in 1942, led by Enrico Fermi, marked a pivotal moment in scientific history and solidified Chicago's role in the development of nuclear technology.
Chicago Transit Authority created
The creation of the Chicago Transit Authority in 1945 transformed public transportation in the city, modernizing the system and enhancing connectivity for residents.
First issue of Chicago Sun-Times published
The first issue of the Chicago Sun-Times in 1948 added a new voice to Chicago's media landscape, providing diverse perspectives and contributing to the city's journalistic legacy.
Chess Records founded
The founding of Chess Records in 1950 played a pivotal role in shaping the Chicago blues and rock scenes, leaving an indelible mark on the city's musical history.
Lyric Theatre of Chicago (Lyric Opera) founded
In 1954, the founding of the Lyric Theatre, later known as the Lyric Opera of Chicago, enriched the city's cultural landscape, becoming a renowned institution for opera performances and artistic expression.
First section of Congress Expressway (Dwight D. Eisenhower) opens
The opening of the first section of the Congress Expressway in 1955, named after Dwight D. Eisenhower, facilitated transportation and marked a key development in Chicago's urban infrastructure.
WTTW's first broadcast airs
In 1955, WTTW's inaugural broadcast contributed to the city's media landscape, providing educational and cultural programming that would become integral to Chicago's public television.
Our Lady of the Angels School Fire
The tragic Our Lady of the Angels School Fire in 1958 was a devastating event that prompted changes in fire safety regulations and increased awareness about the importance of school safety.
DuSable Museum of African American History established
The establishment of the DuSable Museum of African American History in 1961 was a pivotal moment, providing a dedicated space to showcase and celebrate the rich history and contributions of African Americans.
O'Hare Airport opens
The opening of O'Hare Airport in 1963 transformed Chicago into a major transportation hub, playing a central role in global air travel and economic development.
Southwest Expressway (Adlai E. Stevenson) completed
The completion of the Southwest Expressway in 1964, named after Adlai E. Stevenson, improved transportation and connectivity on Chicago's South Side, impacting the city's infrastructure and development.
McCormick Place Fire
The McCormick Place Fire of 1967 was a tragic incident that led to improvements in fire safety standards for large public buildings, shaping regulations for convention centers and exhibition halls.
United Airlines Flight 553 crashes
The crash of United Airlines Flight 553 in 1972 was a tragic aviation incident that prompted investigations into airline safety and contributed to improvements in flight regulations.
Shakman Agreement signed
The signing of the Shakman Agreement in 1972 aimed to eliminate political patronage and enhance fair employment practices in Chicago, marking a significant step towards government reform.
Sears Tower (later Willis Tower) completed, becoming world’s tallest building
The completion of the Sears Tower (later Willis Tower) in 1973 marked an architectural triumph, making it the world's tallest building and a symbol of Chicago's innovation and skyline dominance.
Deep Tunnel Project begins
The commencement of the Deep Tunnel Project in 1975 addressed longstanding flooding issues, significantly improving the city's water management infrastructure and resilience against heavy rainfall.
American Airlines Flight 191 crashes
The tragic crash of American Airlines Flight 191 in 1979 was a somber event that prompted investigations into aviation safety, leading to improvements in aircraft maintenance and regulations.
Jane Byrne elected first female mayor
Jane Byrne's election as the first female mayor of Chicago in 1979 marked a historic moment, breaking gender barriers and paving the way for increased female representation in city leadership.
Harold Washington elected first African American mayor
Harold Washington's election as the first African American mayor of Chicago in 1983 was a landmark achievement, signifying progress in racial equality and political inclusivity in the city.
Deadly heat wave
The deadly heat wave of 1995 was a tragic event that highlighted the importance of public health measures and emergency response strategies during extreme weather conditions.