The Dangerous Situation in Cairo, Illinois

Explore the complex history and current challenges of Cairo, Illinois in this 20-minute video. Delve into the city's founding in 1818 as a promising river port at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Learn about Cairo's strategic importance during the Civil War as a Union Army supply hub and General Ulysses S. Grant's command post. Examine the factors that led to the city's decline in the 20th century, including economic hardships, racial tensions, and population loss. Discover how this once-thriving urban center became a symbol of urban decay, while still maintaining its historical significance in American history. Gain insights into the weekly series on American urban decay, presented by host Ryan Socash, and understand the dangerous situation that has unfolded in this pivotal Illinois city.

The Dangerous Situation in Cairo, Illinois