The document discusses several topics related to the history of New York City and American urbanization: 1) It describes key events that led to the American Revolution such as the Stamp Act of 1765 and debt owed to England. 2) It provides details on construction of the Brooklyn Bridge from 1869-1871 and how it united the islands of New York City. 3) It discusses the economic boom of New York City in the late 1800s, attributed to growth of the steel industry and construction of railroads.

1. By: Michael WittmanAssignment 3: American Urbanization & New York City

2. The Country and the CityStamp Act of 1765: England wanted the debt owed from transactions.This tax was imposed on printed material such as newspaper and legal documents.Debt owed was 130 million.Merchants and sailors were the ones who felt this tax the most.England wanted their debt or else New York would be forced to separate from the British.This led to the American Revolution.

3. The Country and the CityAmerican Revolution: Started by a British invasion this war went on for seven years.The French agreed to help the Americans in 1778 and loaned money.George Washington led the Americans into battle and was appointed as the first president after the war ended.The British eventually ended up surrendering in Manhattan which had turned from a trading port into a military base for the war.

4. The Country and the City Alexander Hamilton (1755-1804):Wanted to start the American Revolution and rallied people to rebel against the British.Was appointed as an aide of George Washington.He wanted Manhattan to be the Capital of America.After the American Revolution he was named the 1st Secretary of Treasurer by Washington.Hamilton was killed in a duel with Aaron Burr.

5. Sunshine & ShadowBrooklyn Bridge: Construction began in 1869.John Augustus Roebling was in charge of the construction but was hurt in an accident and died so his son Washington Roebling took over.Construction stopped then started up again in 1871.This bridge represented hope as it united all the islands and allowed people to go from city to city.

6. Sunshine & ShadowBoss Tweed: Real name was William M. Tweed.Controlled government and provided jobs for the unemployed, helped the poor, and orphanages. Gave out thousands of dollars in “kickbacks”.The NY Times said he gave out almost $200 million.Tweed was ordered to spend 12 yrs in jail and tried escaping to Spain but was captured.Died of pneumonia in 1878.Ironically, he died in a jail he built.

7. Sunshine & ShadowEconomic Boom: The steel industry helped the economic boom in New York.Railroads were built throughout New York during this period of economic growth.Brooklyn went from being a suburb in New York to a city.A bridge was need to unite the islands because they were all filling up. (Brooklyn Bridge)Staten Island and Manhattan also grew rapidly during this time.

8. A Merger That Puts New York on TopErie Canal: This canal allowed the U.S. to control all exports to Europe.The U.S. also controlled the triangle trade which was the trading of cotton between the south and England.AOL- Timewarner merger: This merging may prevent the west from taking leadership of the new global economy away from New York.One big advantage New York has is location and growing capital markets.

9. America Compared: “Immigrants and Cities”Migration: Between 1870-1914 over 23 million immigrants came to the United States.Immigrants were primarily male and came for economic opportunities. The total number of European immigrants was over 55 million.Some immigrants went to Canada, Brazil, and Argentina but the majority came to the U.S.Some of the immigrants returned home with their new wealth.

10. America Compared: “Immigrants and Cities”New Developments: A shift from sail boats to steam ships allowed bi-weekly trips from Europe to the U.S.New York established new sanitary regulations, quarantine facilities, and reception centers.Improvements in ship propellers.Decrease in mortality rate.

11. America Compared: “Immigrants and CitiesFactors slowing Immigration: World War 11920’s restriction lawsThe Great DepressionJohnson Act of 1921Johnson-Reed Act of 1924Type of work for immigrants:RailroadAgricultureFactoryMiningconstruction