The article reflects on the layered and tumultuous history of land in Chicago, starting from its Indigenous roots to modern-day urban developments. It highlights how the area's original inhabitants, including the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi tribes, faced displacement due to war and governmental decisions. The narrative connects various historical moments, such as the establishment of the University of Chicago and the racial conflicts over land use. Ultimately, it underscores the profound impact of land ownership and its historical trajectory on contemporary society, prompting readers to consider the implications of land tenure in their own lives.
As I cycle from downtown Chicago to my university's campus, I pass over a complicated and consequential history with the land.
It can be easy to forget the significance of the ground beneath our feet - and how much it has shaped the societies we live in.
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