The Rise and Fall of Clout and the Political Machine in Chicago




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ClassGraphic What is the genesis of political patronage in Chicago? In the past, "the city that works" required "clout" for a person to make it big in Chicago, or even to get an entry-level job in the Department of Streets and Sanitation. In Clout City (University of Chicago Press, 2025), Chicago historian Dominic Pacyga recounts the social, cultural, and religious forces that led to the rise and fall of clout and "The Machine" from 1871 to the present. Our study group will explore the roots of "The Machine" that ruled Chicago for decades. We will assess how clout and the glory days of "The Machine" shaped Chicago's current political order. If you are interested in Chicago history and politics and are looking for an engrossing book that will generate spirited discussions on these topics, join us!

Class Details

14 Session(s)
Weekly - Wed

Location
Wieboldt Hall

Instructor
Multiple

Tuition: 

$0.00

Email olli@northwestern.edu for more information. Send to Friend »

Schedule Information

Date(s) Class Days Times Location Instructor(s)
3/4/2026 - 6/3/2026 Weekly - Wed 09:45 AM - 11:45 AM Chicago, Wieboldt Hall  Map Maryann Hayes  ; Robin Charleston 

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