From its turbulent beginnings to its current status as one of the worlds most dynamic cities,City of the Centurytells the story of Chicagoand the story of America, writ small. From its many natural disasters, including the Great Fire of 1871 and several cholera epidemics to its winner-take-all politics, dynamic business empires, breathtaking architecture, its diverse cultures, and its diverse population of writers, journalists, and artists, Chicagos story is violent, inspiring, passionate, and fascinating from the first page to the last.

The winner of the prestigious Great Lakes Book Award, given to the years most outstanding books highlighting the American heartland,City of the Centuryhas received consistent rave reviews and was made into a six-hour film airing on PBSsAmerican Experience series. Written with energetic prose and exacting detail, it brings Chicagos history to vivid life.