The City of Chicago commemorates Chicago’s 187th birthday, honoring the city’s rich history of resilience, progress and cultural significance. From its modest origins to its status as a global metropolis, Chicago continues to be a beacon of opportunity and a testament to the American spirit. Founded in 1837 by Haitian trader Jean Baptiste Point du Sable and his wife Kitihawa, Chicago’s origin story is one of diversity and entrepreneurship. Du Sable’s pioneering spirit laid the foundation for a city that would become a melting pot of cultures and ideas, attracting settlers from across the United States and abroad. Chicago’s history is defined by extraordinary resilience, exemplified in the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. From the ashes of destruction, Chicago rose anew. The city’s swift recovery and rebuilding efforts captured the world’s attention and became a symbol of determination. Throughout its history, Chicago has been a battleground for civil rights and social justice, and at the forefront of progressive movements. Mayor Harold Washington, the city’s first Black mayor, exemplified Chicago’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. Chicago’s sports and music history are legendary, with iconic figures and pioneering genres marking the city’s cultural landscape. That rich cultural tapestry extends beyond sports and music to world-class food, museums and a fine arts scene that has helped shape the city’s identity, along with being a hub for business and higher education.  Today, Chicago’s iconic skyline, dominated by landmarks like the Willis Tower, 875 N. Michigan and the Jeanne Gang and Studio Gang Architects-designed St. Regis Chicago, showcases the city’s architectural ingenuity and global influence.