Chicago, Illinois: A Photographic Portrait

Chicago is one of the most beautiful and desirable cities in the United States. Originally inhabited by various Native nations, including the Potawatomi, Illinois, and Miami, Native Americans had formed a vast network of trails, footpaths, and portages.These established routes were essential to early European traders and American settlers, and in the years that followed, this area would grow to a small village, a town, and finally a city. In 1848, when the Illinois and Michigan Canal was constructed and Chicago's first railroad was laid, the city would be hailed as the center for Midwestern trade. This expansion would soon be devastated by the Chicago Fire of 1871. Despite the fire, much of the city's infrastructure remained intact, and Chicago would bounce back, reconstructing at record speed. Throughout its rebuilding into a modern city, Chicago would build the world's first skyscraper and see an abundance of unique architecture constructed throughout the downtown area. During this time, the city would experience unprecedented economic development and a population explosion. Just 20 years after the fire, Chicago's population would grow from 300,000 people to over 1 million people. Today, Chicago is an architectural wonderland boasting world-class museums and an internationally recognized planetarium and aquarium. It offers its residents and visitors large open spaces, gardens, pathways, beaches, a pier, and a waterfront with stunning views of the city. From its rich history to its evolution into the third-largest city in the United States, photographer Tom Barrat captures the essence of Chicago through his stunning images. Here is the beauty of Chicago. Read more