During World War II; many European government authorities and planners believed that the damage caused by bombing constituted a great opportunity to transform their cities. Even as the fighting continued; a great many plans were drawn up; and this has been the subject of much scholarship. However; what is often overlooked is wartime planning in cities not damaged in the war. United States cities were not bombed; but in Boston; one of its leading cities; the last years of the war brought a major effort to encourage both new plans to modernize the city and also means of implementing those plans.The wartime initiative to transform Boston had several sources. Both the Great Depression and the war had led to major measures by the federal government to try to deal with fiscal challenges and the need for new housing for the many people who relocated during the war because of the creation of new industries to help the war effort. Boston hoped it could benefit from these measures. Moreover; in the late 1930s; Harvard University had become a key residence for figures important in modernist planning; including Joseph Hudnut; Walter Gropius and Martin Wagner. These factors combined in 1944 to inspire what was called The Boston Contest. Its goal was to suggest solutions to many problems found in the metropolitan area. These issues included commercial and industrial developments; housing; transportation; education; recreation; welfare; urban finances; metropolitan government; and citizen participation in solving problems. This book; published in 1945 contains the top 3 prize winning entries and excerpts from 9 of the other nearly 100 entries. It gives a fascinating insight into the developing ideas of urban planning in the United States at a critical juncture.
2015-03-03 2015-03-03File Name: B00U86V8RA
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. So moving. So beautifulBy Born in a LibraryThis year was the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington. This book is a worthy commemorative of that historic event. Looking back; it was an act of courage to decide to put it on and a miracle that it did occur and a triumph that it was peaceful; moving; dignified and a turning point for the civil rights movement.We will not see the likes of these patriots again. God bless Dr. Martin Luther King and all the civil rights leaders of that era and God bless America today; 50 years later.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Let Freedom Ring--A Moving Documentary Look at One of the Greatest Days in American HistoryBy Kevin GroganStanley Treticks photographs are; of course; wonderful. That almost goes without saying. He was an exceptionally talented technical photographer blessed with a great eye who had an extraordinary instinct for the telling moment. His photographs capture the majesty of a day when Americans of all races; colors; and creeds massed in peaceful assembly to carry out a uniquely American form of public statement. Just as impactful as Treticks great photographs is Kitty Kelleys spare and elegant narrative; which captures a moment like no other and conveys its qualities--part church picnic; part protest; part celebration of the human spirit--in ways that can be appreciated by all. This book is a remarkable achievement; and everyone associated with it--from author to photographer to book designer--should be proud of what theyve accomplished in capturing a telling moment in our shared history and sharing it--still fresh; still vital; still meaningful--with a new generation of Americans.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great job on a inspirational timeBy RockyWonderful pictures and text. This is a great book to add to your collection. Kitty Kelley is a wonderful writer and her name only goes on worth plus projects. My wife and I had the privilege of meeting her and she is just terrific. Buy the book; you will not be sorry.
