Move over, New York. The real madmen — and women — were from Chicago
Yes, Chicago created the Pillsbury Doughboy and Rudolph. But its influence on the ad industry runs even deeper.
![]()
![]()
Illinois Democrats score big wins
Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth were re-elected, the state Supreme Court remained under Democratic control and suburban members of Congress won re-election.
![]()
100 years ago, Louis Armstrong came to Chicago and changed music history
Armstrong landed in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood 100 years ago. How did the city influence his music and vice versa?
New report outlines the challenges facing Latino and Hispanic workers
The Metropolitan Planning Council and the Latino Policy Forum offers a glimpse at some obstacles facing Latino workers and some solutions.
![]()
My family lived under British rule in Jamaica. Their struggle can’t be forgotten.
My mother and grandmother were somehow able to reconcile their resistance to colonialism with their love of Queen Elizabeth II.
![]()
What’s in a Name? Shermann “Dilla” Thomas explores the unique history behind Chicago’s neighborhood names
Some Chicago neighborhood origin stories may surprise you.
![]()
Nichelle Nichols blazed a trail from Robbins, Illinois to the Starship Enterprise
Historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas examines the late “Star Trek” actress’ local roots.
![]()
How Chicago’s political conventions have altered American history
Chicago has shaped American politics through its political conventions, beyond the notorious 1968 Democratic National Convention.
![]()
Sam Moy and the mayors of Chicago’s Chinatown
WBEZ’s Lisa Labuz and historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas discuss the history of Chicago’s Chinatown neighborhood at the turn of the 20th century.
![]()
Sweet Home, Chicago: How immigrants shaped the city through sweets
Once the candy-making capital of the world, few candy factories remain in Chicago. Urban historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas talks about candy manufacturing in Chicago from boom to bust.
