The Great Chicago Fire and Its Aftermath

In 1871, Chicago was rapidly developing, with businesses and homes expanding. A severe drought left the city vulnerable to fire, and a rumor about a cow starting the Great Chicago Fire spread. The fire devastated the city, leaving many dead and homeless. Despite the destruction, Chicago rebuilt and grew, with significant advancements in construction. By 1997, the cow was cleared of blame, highlighting the city's resilience and growth.

What was a key characteristic of Chicago's growth in 1871?

• Organized urban planning

• Rapid and disorganized development

• Decline in population

• Slow and steady expansion

What natural condition contributed to the fire hazard in Chicago?

• High humidity

• Frequent snowstorms

• A six-week drought

• Heavy rainfall

What is the legend associated with the start of the Great Chicago Fire?

• Catherine O's cow kicking over a lantern

• A forest fire spreading to the city

• A lightning strike

• A factory explosion

How many people were left homeless due to the Great Chicago Fire?

• The entire population

• A quarter of the population

• A third of the population

• Half of the population

Who was elected as the new mayor of Chicago after the fire?

• Catherine O

• William Thompson

• Joseph Medill

• John Smith

What issue arose with the voting records after the fire?

• They were perfectly preserved

• They were destroyed, leading to voting fraud

• They were moved to a new location

• They were digitized

By 1990, how had Chicago's population changed since the fire?

• It had tripled

• It had doubled

• It remained the same

• It had decreased

What materials were used in the new construction of Chicago post-fire?

• Glass and plastic

• Brick and clay

• Steel and stone

• Wood and straw

When was Catherine O's cow finally cleared of blame for the fire?

• 1985

• 1997

• 1900

• 1871