Twenty-First Century Chicago investigates the social, economic, political, and governmental conditions of Chicago in this century. The anthology features a unique emphasis on first-hand accounts: speeches by politicians, newspaper stories, editorials by journalists, memoirs and biographies, and little known research reports advocating change. Covering metropolitan Chicago as a whole, the volume underscores the city's efforts in recent years to establish itself as a global metropolitan region and highlights the most pressing issues Chicago faces in order to create a positive future in these challenging times.

The revised third edition reflects significant changes within Chicago. The anthology now includes three recent speeches from Mayor Lori Lightfoot and new or expanded coverage on the topics of racism and police violence, scandals and corruption, and political shifts in voting patterns for various counties within Chicago.

Twenty-First Century Chicago is an ideal resource for courses that explore the dynamic history and modern impact of this vibrant and influential city.

Dick Simpson is former alderman of the 44th Ward of Chicago and led the opposition bloc in the Chicago City Council against Mayors Richard J. Daley and Michael Bilandic. He is professor emeritus and the former head of the Political Science Department at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Marco Rosaire Rossi received his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Chicago and is an adjunct professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology. His interests include urban politics and political theory, and he has published articles in Z Magazine, The Humanist, and New Compass.

Constance A. Mixon is a professor of political science and director of the urban studies program at Elmhurst University. Dr. Mixon frequently provides political analysis and commentary for international, national, and local media outlets.

Melissa Mouritsen is a professor of political science at College of DuPage. Previously, she taught for four years as an adjunct professor of political science at Dominican University. She is a former alderman's assistant and building and zoning consultant.