Near the end of this section of the reading, Erik Larson writes of the “turmoil and grief engulf[ing] Chicago.” “The old world,” he notes, “was passing” (121-22). Based on what you’ve read so far, what do you think was the most significant issue or tension in the United States in the 1880s and 1890s, and why? Cite evidence from the book to support your choice.
I think the most significant issue in the United States in the 1880 and 1890s was becoming organized enough to prosper and control such rapid urbanization of cities throughout the United States. Everything and everywhere seemed to be moving so fast that it was an extremely chaotic time for workers, business, city government and politics. This can be seen in the way the H.H Holmes takes advantage of construction workers, “Holmes cast himself as a demanding contractor. As workers came to him for their wages, he berated them for doing shoddy work and refused to pay them, even if the work was perfect. They quit, or he fired them. He recruited others to replace them and treated these workers the same way” (67). Since nothing was organized it was easy for him to continue his scams with others who had no knowledge of his past or work standards.
Why do you think Larson has chosen to intertwine the story of the fair with that of Holmes?
I think it shows just how unorganized everything really was. With so much going on all around and little to no resource or structure to control such fast growth it allowed people to take advantage of the system for their own means, be they good or bad.
I have to agree with you, as many of us I’m guessing will agree that the population growth during this time was outrageous. During the time of the fair many people were flooding the streets of Chicago which was a good thing. Although on the other hand with too many people causes issues that aren’t easy to sort out. I think with the messy crowds and everything that was happening made it easier for Holmes to get away with everything during that time. Good post really liked your take on it.
This was an interesting take on the issues present during that time. It did seem very chaotic and it seemed so easy for someone to acquire a new name/identity and never be “found out” as Holmes did. It was probably much easier to do this in the bustling city of Chicago rather than a small town. Holmes seemed very street smart and new exactly what to say and do to get what he wanted!