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City on the Edge: Buffalo, New York, 1900-Present

Jeremy Mitchell

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Buffalo, New York, is a city with a rich and complex history. Founded in 1801, the city quickly became a major center of industry and commerce. By the early 20th century, Buffalo was one of the most important cities in the United States. However, the city's fortunes declined in the mid-20th century, as the city's economy shifted away from manufacturing. In recent years, Buffalo has begun to experience a resurgence, thanks to its strong cultural scene and its growing economy.

City on the Edge: Buffalo, New York, 1900 - present

by Mark Goldman

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3808 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	413 pages

The Early Years

Buffalo was founded in 1801 by Joseph Ellicott, a surveyor who was commissioned by the Holland Land Company to lay out a new town on the Niagara River. The town was originally called New Amsterdam, but it was renamed Buffalo in 1804. The name "Buffalo" comes from the large herds of buffalo that once roamed the area.

In the early 19th century, Buffalo grew rapidly. The city's population increased from just a few hundred people in 1801 to over 40,000 people by 1850. This growth was fueled by the city's strategic location at the western end of the Erie Canal. The Erie Canal connected Buffalo to the East Coast, and it made the city a major center of trade and commerce.

The Industrial Era

By the late 19th century, Buffalo had become a major industrial center. The city was home to a number of large factories, including steel mills, automobile plants, and grain elevators. Buffalo was also a major railroad hub, and it was the headquarters of the New York Central Railroad.

The industrial era was a time of great prosperity for Buffalo. The city's population grew rapidly, and the city's skyline was transformed by the construction of new factories and skyscrapers. Buffalo was also a major center of culture and entertainment. The city was home to a number of theaters, museums, and art galleries.

The Decline of Manufacturing

The mid-20th century saw the decline of manufacturing in Buffalo. The steel industry, which had been the backbone of the city's economy, began to move to other parts of the country. The automobile industry also declined, as the city's factories were unable to compete with the lower-priced cars being produced in the South and Midwest.

The decline of manufacturing led to a sharp decline in Buffalo's population. The city's population peaked at over 580,000 people in 1950. By 1970, the city's population had declined to just over 460,000 people.

The Resurgence of Buffalo

In recent years, Buffalo has begun to experience a resurgence. The city's economy has been diversified, and the city is now home to a number of new industries, including healthcare, education, and technology. The city's population has also begun to grow again. Between 2010 and 2020, the city's population increased by over 10,000 people.

Buffalo's resurgence is due in part to its strong cultural scene. The city is home to a number of world-renowned museums, theaters, and art galleries. The city also has a vibrant music scene, and it is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year.

Buffalo's resurgence is also due to its growing economy. The city is home to a number of major corporations, including M&T Bank, Delaware North, and Rich Products. The city is also a major center of medical research, and it is home to the University at Buffalo and the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Buffalo, New York, is a city with a rich and complex history. The city has experienced both boom and bust, but it has always managed to reinvent itself. Today, Buffalo is a thriving metropolis with a strong economy and a vibrant culture. The city is on the edge of a new era, and it is poised to become one of the most important cities in the United States.

City on the Edge: Buffalo, New York, 1900 - present

by Mark Goldman

4.6 out of 5