American Experience Season 15 Episode 5 Chicago: City of the Century (Part 3)

Chicago: City of the Century (Part 3) is the fifth episode of the fifteenth season of the television series American Experience. In this episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the final years of Chicago's growth and development during the late 19th century and early 20th century. The episode explores the city's efforts to handle the challenges of industrialization, as they aimed to create an urban paradise for its citizens.

Chicago's rise to success was fueled by a combination of industry and immigration. Heavy industry was quickly established in the city due to its prime location on the Great Lakes. As a result, a large influx of immigrants from all over the world came to call Chicago home. However, the price of industrialization was high, as the city became known for dangerous work conditions, widespread pollution, and poverty.

Chicago's growth during this time also meant it was becoming a hub of corruption, with powerful political machines running the city. Viewers will see how the infamous World's Columbian Exposition of 1893 was used by politicians to showcase the city while lining their pockets at the expense of taxpayers. Despite the corruption, Mayor Carter Harrison II was able to provide stability to the city and make great strides in the development of infrastructure and public facilities such as parks and libraries.

The episode also covers the struggles of labor unions during this time, as they fought for better work conditions and wages. The Pullman Strike of 1894 stands out as a particular turning point for labor relations in the city, as it brought about violent clashes between workers and law enforcement.

The final portion of the episode focuses on the transformative events of the early 20th century, including the introduction of the automobile and the booming of the entertainment industry, which allowed for the rise of Chicago's popular culture. It was also during this time that the city was forced to address its numerous problems, as the death of approximately 600 people caused by a fire at the Iroquois Theater in 1903 led to major reforms and improvements in public safety measures.

Overall, Chicago: City of the Century (Part 3) explores the challenges and triumphs of a city coming into its own as an industrial and cultural powerhouse. The episode paints a vivid and engaging picture of what life was like during this period of Chicago's history, and how the city's resilience and determination helped build it into the world-class metropolis it is today.