Chicagoans love to boast about our accomplishments, and really, is it any wonder why? There are so many great things from Chicago, from deep dish pizza to the music of Earth, Wind, & Fire. There are so many amazing things from Chicago history, and really, we’re proud of all our accomplishments. Whether you’re talking about things that make your life easier to things that make your life sweeter, there’s no shortage of Chicago firsts. Our great city has played a major role in curating some major aspects of everyday life, across the nation and the world! These 11 things invented in Chicago are certainly near the top of the list when it comes to Chi-town accomplishments. Check them out:

As you can see, many of these things invented in Chicago were designed for the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. This fair was created to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus sailing the ocean blue in 1492. The event featured a large reflecting pool made to represent the long voyage over from Spain. Chicago competed with New York City, Washington D.C., and St. Louis for the honor of hosting the event. Chicagoans took the fair very seriously, and so many Chicago firsts occurred around this time!

Do you know of any other things invented in Chicago? Share your facts in the comments: We love hearing about Chicago history.

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Chicago Firsts

What are some more things invented in Chicago?

There have actually been quite a few amazing things invented in Chicago! Here are a few more of the most notable things from Chicago:

  • the soap opera
  • the softball
  • spray paint
  • roller derby

 

What are some firsts in Chicago history?

  • Thanks largely to the devastation wrought by the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the Palmer House was the nation's first fireproof hotel when it was rebuilt in 1875.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was written a few years prior, but it's thought that it was first recited by schoolchildren in Chicago in 1892.