In her book, historian and architect Dolores Hayden delves into the urban communities of Los Angeles to explore the intersections of gender, race, and ethnicity in the practice of public history and public art. By reorienting the writing of urban history to spatial struggles, she offers fresh perspectives on urban preservation that challenge traditional notions of what constitutes a historical site. This thought-provoking work is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of urban communities and the ways in which they shape our understanding of the past. Recommended for urban planners, architects, historians, and anyone interested in the intersections of gender, race, and ethnicity in urban communities, Dolores Hayden's book offers a fresh perspective on the practice of public history and public art. By examining the spatial struggles that shape our understanding of historical sites, she challenges readers to rethink traditional notions of urban preservation and the writing of urban history. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complex dynamics of urban communities and the ways in which they shape our understanding of the past.

Why did the cost of urban housing skyrocket? Is it just NIMBYism or is there something deeper at play? Explore the historical and ideological roots of the housing crisis through the lens of historian Jacob Anbinder's dissertation in progress, 'Cities of Amber: Antigrowth Politics and the Making of Modern Liberalism, 1950-2008.'

Discover the world's largest palace complex, built by over a million laborers, and how it symbolizes the center of the universe in Chinese imperial tradition. Explore the strict protocols and social hierarchy of the imperial court that emphasized the emperor's power.

The Disaster Experts by Scott Gabriel Knowles is a thought-provoking book that delves into the paradox of modern American life. Despite having more knowledge about the hazards we face, we are still vulnerable to large-scale disasters. Through historical context, the author explores the role of disaster experts, their influence on public policy, and how they shape modern America. How did these experts become powerful, and why are they only slightly closer today than a decade ago to protecting the public from disasters? This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intertwined development of disaster expertise, public policy, and urbanization. Recommended for students of history, public policy, urban planning, and emergency management, The Disaster Experts offers a unique perspective on the paradox of modern American life. The book explores the role of disaster experts, their influence on public policy, and how they shape modern America. It is particularly relevant to those interested in understanding the intertwined development of disaster expertise, public policy, and urbanization over the past century. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand how disasters are not simply random acts and how we can prevent large-scale disasters from occurring in the future.

Discover the marvel of ancient engineering in China's Hengduan Mountains, where the mysterious stone towers of Pengbuxi stand tall, shrouded in questions about their age, purpose, and builders. Trek with a teacher and explore the biodiverse landscape that has been a tribal corridor for ancient migrations dating back to the Stone Age. Unravel the enigma of these dreamlike megaliths that still hold all the power of a kept secret.

Gentrification is a complex and controversial issue that is affecting cities all around the world. It refers to the process of renovating and improving a run-down urban neighborhood, often resulting in the displacement of low-income residents and small businesses as the neighborhood becomes more attractive to affluent newcomers. One of the leading academics in the field of gentrification studies is Dr. David Harvey, a geographer and sociologist who has written extensively on the topic. In his book, "The Right to the City," Harvey argues that gentrification represents a violation of the "right to the city" for marginalized communities who are pushed out of their neighborhoods as a result. The impact of gentrification on equality can be significant. As low-income residents are forced to move out of gentrifying neighborhoods, they often face challenges finding affordable housing elsewhere, leading to increased homelessness and housing insecurity. Additionally, the loss of diverse communities and small businesses can have a negative impact on cultural richness and local economies. One example of the impact of gentrification can be seen in San Francisco, where the city's African American population declined from 13.4% in 1970 to just 5.8% in 2010 as a result of gentrification and displacement. In London, a similar pattern can be seen, with a report by the Greater London Authority finding that the number of ethnic minority households in the city's inner boroughs has declined by over 50% since the 1980s due to gentrification. These are just a few examples. Explore this interesting and complex topic more and play your part in helping communities grow sustainably and equitably.

Accessibility is a critical component of urban planning and architecture. It is about designing cities and buildings in a way that enables everyone, regardless of their physical or mental ability, to fully participate in society. In recent years, accessibility has become increasingly important, with a growing recognition of the need to build inclusive communities. According to the World Health Organization, over 1 billion people, or 15% of the world's population, experience some form of disability. In the United States, 1 in 4 adults have a disability. This underscores the importance of designing cities that are accessible to all. Urban planners and architects are leading the way in this effort. By incorporating accessibility into their designs, they are transforming cities into spaces that are more inclusive and equitable. For example, the High Line in New York City, a park built on a former elevated railway, is fully accessible, providing an accessible route through the city that was previously lacking. Some specific concepts that are important to consider in accessibility include universal design, wayfinding, and the built environment. Universal design is the practice of designing products and spaces that can be used by everyone, regardless of their abilities. Wayfinding is the practice of creating visual cues that help people navigate through a space. The built environment refers to the physical elements that make up a space, including buildings, streets, and sidewalks. Academics are also contributing to the field of accessibility. One such academic is Edward Steinfeld, who is the founder and director of the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDEA) at the University at Buffalo. Steinfeld has been a pioneer in the field of universal design, and has contributed to the development of guidelines for accessible design. Accessibility is an important topic that affects everyone, and there is no shortage of ways to explore it further. By delving deeper into this field, you can gain a better understanding of the challenges that people with disabilities face, and contribute to creating a more inclusive society.

Urban rejuvenation refers to the process of revitalizing declining or run-down urban areas, often through physical, economic, and social improvements. In recent years, cities around the world have been facing a range of challenges, such as population growth, urbanization, and environmental degradation, making urban rejuvenation an increasingly important topic of study. Leading academics in the field of urban rejuvenation, such as Richard Florida and Jane Jacobs, have made significant contributions to our understanding of the factors that contribute to the success of urban rejuvenation projects. For example, Florida's theory of the "creative class" highlights the role of talented and creative individuals in driving economic growth and revitalization in cities, while Jacobs' ideas about the importance of vibrant and diverse street life and mixed-use developments have influenced urban design and planning practices. Did you know that according to the World Health Organization, over half of the world's population now lives in cities? This means that the success of urban rejuvenation projects is becoming increasingly important for the well-being of millions of people. In addition, a recent study by the Urban Land Institute found that in the United States alone, over $150 billion has been invested in urban revitalization projects in the past decade. There are many exciting and innovative approaches to urban rejuvenation, ranging from community-led initiatives to large-scale government projects. For example, the High Line in New York City, a former elevated railway that was transformed into a public park, has become a popular destination and a symbol of urban renewal. In Detroit, the Greening of Detroit organization is working to create green spaces and promote sustainable agriculture in the city, with the goal of improving the health and well-being of residents.

Want to reduce gun violence in your community? A new study from University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University shows that fixing abandoned houses with new doors, windows, and trash cleanup can lead to significant drops in nearby gun violence. A simple and inexpensive solution for local governments to address the current crisis!

Discover the ancient Greek and Roman city organization through the fresh and accurate perspective of Numa Denis Fustel de Coulanges' 1864 masterpiece, La Cité antique. Unlike other post-Classical histories, Fustel de Coulanges drew upon physical evidence and ancient documents to reveal the religious, family, and civic life of Periclean Athens and Rome during the time of Cicero. This fascinating sociological account highlights the significance of kinship and the cult of family hearth and ancestors to ancient Hellenic and Latin urban culture, tracing their gradual decline to the spread of Christianity. Explore the rise of family-centered pagan belief systems through Fustel's striking prose style and ingenuity of interpretation. Recommended for history enthusiasts, sociologists, and anyone interested in ancient cultures, Numa Denis Fustel de Coulanges' La Cité antique offers a fresh and accurate perspective on the religious, family, and civic life of Periclean Athens and Rome during the time of Cicero. This fascinating sociological account chronicles the rise of family-centered pagan belief systems and their gradual decline to the spread of Christianity. With its unique approach, the book draws upon physical evidence and ancient documents to reveal the significance of kinship and the cult of family hearth and ancestors to ancient Hellenic and Latin urban culture. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the roots of modern Western civilization.

Are you interested in creating the cities and communities of tomorrow? Do you have a passion for designing sustainable environments that promote social equity and economic growth? If so, then the field of Urban and Regional Planning might be the perfect fit for you! Urban and Regional Planning is a dynamic and exciting field that combines elements of architecture, engineering, geography, and social science to create thriving communities. By studying Urban and Regional Planning, you will learn how to design and manage cities, towns, and rural areas to ensure they are functional, equitable, and sustainable. One of the most appealing aspects of Urban and Regional Planning is the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. For example, you might work on projects that improve public transportation, create affordable housing, or promote green spaces and parks. By designing communities that are more walkable, bike-friendly, and accessible, you can help reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions. In recent years, Urban and Regional Planning has also become a hotbed of innovation and research. From smart cities and urban data analytics to participatory planning and community engagement, there are countless exciting areas of study within the field. You might find yourself working with cutting-edge technology, such as 3D modeling and virtual reality, to create more realistic and immersive urban environments. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules in Urban and Regional Planning include courses in urban design, land use planning, environmental planning, transportation planning, and community development. You may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as historic preservation, urban economics, or GIS mapping. After graduation, there are many potential career paths available to Urban and Regional Planning graduates. You might work for a government agency, such as a city planning department or a regional transportation authority. Alternatively, you could work for a private consulting firm, helping clients navigate complex zoning regulations and land use policies. Notable employers in the field include firms like AECOM, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, and Gensler. To succeed in Urban and Regional Planning, it's helpful to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as an interest in social justice and community development. A background in architecture, engineering, geography, or sociology can also be beneficial. With the right combination of skills and passion, you can make a real difference in shaping the cities and communities of tomorrow.

Are you fascinated by the way cities work? Do you want to help shape the future of urban spaces? If so, Urban Planning may be the perfect field of study for you! Urban Planning is an exciting and dynamic field that combines design, policy, and social science to create livable, sustainable, and equitable cities. It is a multi-disciplinary field that draws on disciplines such as architecture, geography, economics, sociology, and environmental science. One of the most appealing aspects of Urban Planning is its real-world impact. Urban planners work on projects that can transform entire neighborhoods, cities, and even regions. For example, urban planners may work on projects such as designing a new public park, improving public transportation, or creating affordable housing. These projects have a direct impact on people's lives, making Urban Planning a rewarding and meaningful field of study. In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in Urban Planning due to the urgency of climate change and the need for more sustainable cities. This has led to exciting innovations in the field, such as green infrastructure, urban agriculture, and smart cities. Urban Planning is also a field that is constantly evolving, with new research and academic discourse emerging all the time. At the undergraduate level, Urban Planning majors typically take courses in urban design, land use planning, transportation planning, environmental planning, and community development. Students may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as historic preservation, affordable housing, or urban health. After completing a degree in Urban Planning, there are many potential career paths to pursue. Graduates may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private firms. Some popular job titles include urban planner, transportation planner, environmental planner, and community development specialist. Notable employers include the World Bank, the United Nations, and the National Park Service. To succeed in Urban Planning, it is helpful to have a strong interest in cities, design, and social justice. Strong skills in communication, critical thinking, and data analysis are also important. If you are passionate about creating more livable, sustainable, and equitable cities, Urban Planning may be the perfect field of study for you!

Board games can be a fun pastime, but what happens when they reinforce prejudices and glorify colonial domination? Researchers at MIT and Dartmouth delve into the history of board games in their new book, "Playing Oppression," and analyze the assumptions baked into many of them. From the problematic elements of "Puerto Rico" to the glorification of empire-building in games like "Empires: Age of Discovery," this book sheds light on the legacy of conquest and empire in colonialist board games.

Utopianism is the belief in a perfect world, or at least a world designed to be perfect. It may seem like an impossible concept, but it has been around for centuries. Many cultures and religions have myths of a perfect society in the past, and there have been all sorts of ideas about a perfect society. Being a utopianist essentially means being a dreamer, and striving for a better world. While utopianism's main flaw is its obsession with perfection, it is important to at least strive for a better world. Learning about utopianism can help you to understand how people have tried to create perfect societies in the past, and the potential pitfalls of such thinking. It can also inspire you to dream big and work towards a better future. So, don't be afraid to be a dreamer and imagine a better world. Who knows, you might just be the one to make it a reality.

Are you interested in shaping the built environment of cities and towns to improve the quality of life for their inhabitants? Do you want to create beautiful, functional, and sustainable spaces that promote health, equity, and social interaction? If so, then urban design may be the perfect field of study for you. Urban design is an interdisciplinary field that combines architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, engineering, and social sciences to create well-designed and well-managed urban spaces. Urban designers are involved in every aspect of city design, from street layouts to building facades, public spaces, and transportation systems. They work to make cities more livable, attractive, and sustainable. Some of the most interesting and meaningful aspects of urban design include creating green spaces, promoting public transportation, and fostering community engagement. For example, the High Line in New York City is a prime example of how urban designers can transform an abandoned railway into a vibrant public park that provides both recreational space and a connection between different neighborhoods. Urban design is also a field that is constantly evolving, with new research, innovations, and academic discourse emerging all the time. Recent developments include smart city technology, which uses data and technology to improve city infrastructure and services, as well as innovative urban planning strategies that promote sustainability and resilience. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in subjects such as urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture, and engineering. These courses will provide a solid foundation in the principles and practices of urban design, and may include studio classes where students can work on real-world projects. There are many potential areas of further specialization in urban design, including transportation planning, housing, public space design, and community development. For example, you might specialize in designing public transportation systems like the BRT system in Bogota, Colombia, or in creating mixed-use developments like Battery Park City in New York City. Urban design is a field with a wide range of potential career paths, including urban planner, landscape architect, city designer, transportation planner, and housing developer. Some of the key industries for prospective future employment include government agencies, non-profit organizations, real estate development companies, and architecture and engineering firms. Notable employers in this field include firms like Gensler, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), and the City of Copenhagen. To succeed in urban design, it is helpful to have strong design skills, an interest in public policy and urban issues, and the ability to think creatively and collaboratively. You should also have strong communication skills, as urban design often involves working with a variety of stakeholders and communicating complex design ideas to the public.

Are you a fan of the Mona Lisa? Have you ever wondered about the mysterious woman in the painting and the location behind her? A recent discovery by Italian art historian Silvano Vinceti may have uncovered the truth about the bridge in the painting. In an article by Smithsonian Magazine, Vinceti argues that the bridge in the painting is the Ponte Romito, located in the Tuscan village of Laterina. His findings have caused a stir among art historians and may even attract future visitors to the small town. Read on to find out more about this fascinating discovery!

Unesco has added the baguette to its "intangible cultural heritage" list, celebrating the French way of life. Despite its decline in recent years, the baguette remains key to French identity and a daily ritual, synonymous with sharing and conviviality. Discover the history, artisanal know-how, and social habits behind this iconic bread that affects all socio-cultural categories, whether you're rich or poor.

Colonial history is a complex and often painful subject, involving the histories and legacies of colonization, empire, and slavery. In recent years, the concept of colonial history revisionism has been in the spotlight, as scholars, activists, and communities have challenged traditional narratives and sought to center the experiences of those who have been marginalized or silenced. In this write-up, we will explore the key concepts and debates around colonial history revisionism, as well as the contributions of leading academics in the field. Colonial history revisionism involves questioning and re-examining traditional narratives of colonization, empire, and slavery. This can include challenging dominant perspectives that have centered white, European perspectives, and silencing or marginalizing the voices of colonized peoples and enslaved Africans. Revisionism also involves looking at the ways in which colonial legacies continue to shape our world today, from economic inequality to systemic racism. One of the key debates within colonial history revisionism is around the concept of "decolonization." This term refers to the process of undoing the effects of colonization and centering the voices and experiences of colonized peoples. However, there is debate around what decolonization looks like in practice, and whether it is possible within existing structures of power. There are many academics who have contributed to the field of colonial history revisionism. One of the most influential is Edward Said, who wrote extensively on the concept of Orientalism and the ways in which Western perspectives have shaped the study of the "Orient." Another important figure is Frantz Fanon, who wrote about the psychological effects of colonization on the colonized, and the need for a "decolonization of the mind." More recent scholars include Saidiya Hartman, who explores the experiences of enslaved Africans and their descendants, and Jemima Pierre, who looks at the connections between colonialism and the global economy. In conclusion, colonial history revisionism is a vital field of study that challenges traditional narratives and center the voices and experiences of those who have been marginalized or silenced. By exploring this area further, students can deepen their understanding of colonial history and its legacies, and contribute to ongoing efforts to decolonize our world.

Natural disasters like the Kobe earthquake of 1995 can devastate even highly engineered cities, making disaster resilience a crucial field of study. MIT's Miho Mazereeuw, an expert in disaster resilience and founder of the Urban Risk Lab, focuses on community-level efforts and designs to prepare for the future and reduce the impact of disasters.

Charles Montgomery's Happy City is a refreshing take on urban living, exploring the intersection between urban design and the emerging science of happiness. In this exhilarating journey through some of the world's most dynamic cities, Montgomery meets visionary mayors, architects, activists, and suburbanites who have hacked the design of their own streets and neighborhoods. With new insights from psychology, neuroscience, and Montgomery's own urban experiments, Happy City reveals how our cities can shape our thoughts and behavior. The message is both surprising and hopeful: by retrofitting cities and our own lives for happiness, we can tackle the urgent challenges of our age. Recommended for urban planners, architects, designers, environmentalists, and anyone interested in the intersection between urban design and the emerging science of happiness. The book provides a refreshing perspective on urban living and explores the potential of retrofitting cities and our own lives for happiness. It is also relevant to policymakers, city officials, and activists interested in creating sustainable and livable cities. The book draws on new insights from psychology, neuroscience, and urban experiments to reveal how our cities can shape our thoughts and behavior. Happy City is a must-read for anyone looking to tackle the urgent challenges of our age.