Introduction to Chicago in 1989
In 1989, when Richard M. Daley became mayor, Chicago faced a number of problems. The “Council Wars” of that decade had drawn attention to and exacerbated bitter racial divisions. A growing number of Chicagoans lost faith in the city’s ability to provide basic services and ensure access to education, police protection, and affordable housing. And the economy was changing. Well-paying manufacturing jobs were disappearing, and residents worried whether Chicago would adapt.
Valerie Jarrett, Chicago Planning Commissioner (1991-1995) summarizes the challenges facing Chicago when Daley took office:
