The dark underbelly of progress from "summary" of The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
The World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago was a dazzling display of innovation and progress. The fairgrounds sparkled with white stucco buildings and shimmering lagoons, showcasing the latest technology and architecture of the late 19th century. Visitors marveled at the electric lights, moving sidewalks, and other marvels of modern engineering. However, beneath the surface of this shiny facade lurked a much darker reality. The rapid growth and development of Chicago came at a cost – a cost that was often paid in human lives. The construction of the fairgrounds was plagued by accidents and fatalities, as workers labored under dangerous conditions to meet tight deadlines. The demand for cheap labor led to the exploitation of immigrant workers, who toiled long hours for meager wages in unsafe environments. Meanwhile, the city itself was a breeding ground for crime and corruption. The influx of people and money brought with it a wave of criminal activity, including pr...
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