Chicago in the 1980s: Sports, Culture, Politics

“Be assured that I did not become the Mayor of Chicago to preside over its decline. I am here before you tonight to dedicate this administration to bringing a new renaissance of neighborhood life and community spirit, a renewal of confidence in the future of our city and a revival of opportunity for all Chicago.”

Jane Byrne, 1979
First Female Mayor of Chicago

The Red Line

Chicago’s public transit train is known as the “El” or “L” -depending on who you ask. It has been a mainstay of life for Chicagoans living and working in the city for decades with many expansions and re-routes. The Red Line starts at the Howard terminal on the city’s north side, crosses through downtown, and ends at 95th on the south side.

In the 1980s, the line was officially called the Howard Line, though colloquially, people already called the lines by their colors. Watch video of the Chicago L Train (including some Red Line footage) from 1980!

Politics

In 1979, Jane Byrne was the first woman elected as mayor of Chicago. She won with the highest margin in any Chicago mayoral election (before and since). Her progressive ideas and decisive actions led to some lasting positive changes for the city. However, several missteps coupled with an atmosphere of sexism and misogyny from critics led her to lose the 1983 election to Harold Washington, the first African American mayor of Chicago.

Sports

By 1982, Chicago sports is already a powerful industry. Walter Payton was making waves in the NFL, and would soon lead the Bears to the Super Bowl XX victory in 1985.
Michael Jordan is drafted to the Bulls in 1984, forever changing the trajectory of professional sports in Chicago.

Art & Culture

Chicago begins to make a bigger name for itself on the stage with Second City, Steppenwolf Theatre, and Hubbard Street Dance Company rising to regional icon status. The visual art scene bursts open with well-funded galleries popping up all over the city, and famous works like Judy Chicago’s The Dinner Party, coming to town for special exhibits.

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