Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• History on the founding of Chicago

• Chicago Blackhawks game recap

• A deep dive into the life of Al Capone

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who has a why to live can bear almost any how."

– Friedrich Nietzsche

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What year was the Great Chicago Fire?

A) 1870

B) 1871

C) 1872

D) 1873

News

💼 Business

Bank of America's small business lending in the Chicago area has increased year-over-year, with over $480 million extended to local small businesses through the third quarter of 2023. (link)

Luis Alejandro Giralt's work in technology and cryptocurrencies was highlighted for its innovative impact on business. (link)

Citigroup announced the layoff of 20,000 employees, reflecting a significant trend in the business sector. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Chicago Blackhawks recent games included losses to the Seattle Kraken (6-2) and Vancouver Canucks (2-0), but a win over the New York Islanders (4-3). (link)

The Blackhawks re-signed Petr Mrazek to a two-year contract extension. (link)

The Chicago Bears has been interviewing candidates for the defensive coordinator position. (link)

The Loyola Chicago Men's Basketball Team is making a strong case for their inclusion in the NCAA March Madness. (link)

🏦 Finance

A major investment by a Chicago-based venture capital firm in a tech startup was announced. (link)

A Chicago-based financial expert was recognized for their influential work in the finance sector. (link)

The industrial construction sector in Chicago was poised for a rebound, influenced by market conditions and interest rates. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors
United Center, Chicago, IL
Saturday, Jan. 30 | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Chicago Bulls vs. Sacramento Kings
United Center, Chicago, IL
Saturday, Feb. 3rd | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🏃 F3 Lake Half Marathon & 5K
Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Saturday, Feb. 3rd | 10:30 AM | (More Info)

🏀 George Mason Patriots @ Loyola Chicago Ramblers
Joseph J. Gentile Arena, Chicago, IL
Saturday, Feb. 3rd | 4:30 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Keith Sweat, Tyrese, and Pretty Ricky 
Wintrust Arena, Chicago, IL
Friday, Feb. 2nd | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤 Madonna
United Center, Chicago, IL
Friday, Feb. 1-2 | 8:30 PM | (More Info)

🎸 No Vacation 
Lincoln Hall, Chicago, IL
Friday, Feb. 2nd | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🏒 McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Millennium Park, Chicago, IL
Daily from Jan. 29th - Feb. 4th | 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM | (More Info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Chicago skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Chicago Historical Events

The Founding of Chicago (1833)

In 1833, the small settlement at the mouth of the Chicago River was officially incorporated as the Town of Chicago, marking the formal beginning of the city's storied history. Initially inhabited by a modest population of around 200 people, the area was recognized for its strategic significance due to its connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River watershed.

The founding of Chicago was significantly influenced by its geographical location, acting as a pivotal hub for trade and transportation. Its proximity to waterways facilitated the movement of goods and attracted a diverse array of settlers, traders, and entrepreneurs. This early period was characterized by rapid growth, laying the groundwork for Chicago's development into a bustling metropolitan center.

As Chicago continued to expand, it quickly adapted to the needs of its growing population. The establishment of infrastructure, institutions, and commercial enterprises during these formative years set the stage for the city's future as a major economic and cultural powerhouse in the United States. The incorporation of Chicago in 1833 was not just the birth of a city but the beginning of an era that would see the transformation of a modest settlement into a globally recognized urban giant.

Famous People From Chicago

Al Capone (1899-1947)

Early Life in New York (1899-1919)

Al Capone, born in 1899 in Brooklyn, New York, grew up in a poor, immigrant neighborhood. The rough streets and early exposure to crime shaped his future path.

Rise in the Criminal World (1920-1925)

Moving to Chicago in his twenties, Capone quickly climbed the ranks of Johnny Torrio's gang. He became involved in various illegal activities, setting the foundation for his future empire.

Control of the Chicago Outfit (1926-1931)

Capone took over the Chicago Outfit, expanding its operations into bootlegging, gambling, and prostitution, becoming one of the city's most feared and influential figures.

The St. Valentine's Day Massacre (1929)

Though never officially charged, Capone is often linked to the St. Valentine's Day Massacre, a brutal event that cemented his notorious reputation and escalated gang warfare in Chicago.

Public Persona and Charitable Acts (Throughout Career)

Despite his criminal activities, Capone maintained a public image of a charitable businessman, contributing to his complex legacy.

Downfall and Imprisonment (1931-1939)

Capone's downfall began with a conviction for tax evasion in 1931. He served time in Alcatraz, where his health deteriorated significantly.

Final Years and Death (1940-1947)

After his release, Capone lived in Florida, plagued by health issues. He died in 1947, leaving behind a notorious legacy.

Al Capone's Key Achievements:

• Became the notorious leader of the Chicago Outfit, controlling extensive criminal activities.

• Masterminded various infamous events, including the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.

• Cultivated a public image combining feared gangster and charitable citizen.

• His life and career significantly influenced the public perception of organized crime in America.

Al Capone, one of the most infamous gangsters in American history, rose from the streets of New York to become the feared leader of Chicago's criminal underworld. His reign during Prohibition-era Chicago left a lasting impact on the city and the nation, intertwining criminal notoriety with public benevolence. Capone's life story continues to fascinate, symbolizing the complexities of crime, power, and public image in early 20th-century America.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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