The World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893: Chicago’s Society Debut

By Captain Quaestor

Professor Lena Foltz-Pendarvis
Beating out Washington, St. Louis, and its fiercest rival New York City, Chicago won the right to host the Columbian Exposition of 1893. This event not only showcased the best and brightest America had to offer, it served as Chicago’s entry to the world stage. Professor Lena Foltz-Pendarvis explains the background on the battle to host the Fair as well as the pressure to make the White City a shining beacon for the world.