Chicago World’s Fair: “Century of Progress”

The “Century of Progress” World’s Fair in Chicago was a significant event in the 1930s that celebrated the city’s progress and showcased science, technology, and architecture innovations.

• Dates: The fair took place from May 27, 1933, to November 12, 1933, and later reopened for a second season on May 26, 1934, until October 31, 1934.
• Location: The fair was held on Northerly Island and surrounding Burnham Park in Chicago, Illinois.
• Theme: The event’s central theme was “A Century of Progress,” which aimed to showcase advancements and innovations made since the city’s founding in 1833.
• Attendance: The fair attracted approximately 48 million visitors over its two seasons.
• Architecture: The fair featured several striking examples of Art Deco architecture, including the Sky Ride, a futuristic cable car system, and the Hall of Science, which showcased scientific advancements.
• Notable exhibits: The fair included a variety of exhibits from different industries, such as General Motors’ “Futurama,” which imagined a futuristic city with advanced transportation systems. The fair also featured the “Homes of Tomorrow” exhibit, which displayed innovative home design and construction ideas.
• Impact on pop culture: The “Century of Progress” World’s Fair influenced popular culture by focusing on technology and innovation. It inspired futuristic visions of society and impacted architecture, design, and urban planning.
• Prominent people: Several notable people attended the fair, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who gave the opening address. Many prominent architects and designers contributed to the fair’s buildings and exhibits, such as industrial designer Norman Bel Geddes and architect Raymond Hood.

In summary, the “Century of Progress” World’s Fair in Chicago was a significant event that celebrated innovation and progress in various industries. Its influence on popular culture can still be seen today through its impact on architecture, design, and urban planning.