Black Tuesday: The Stock Market Crash of 1929
On October 29, 1929, the stock market experienced a significant downturn, known as Black Tuesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted, losing nearly 12 percent of its value. Coupled with the losses from the previous day, the market saw a quarter of its value vanish.
By mid-November, the total loss was approximately 50 percent, as reported by the Federal Reserve. The Tribune’s Tom Pettey described a day marked by continuous activity and hourly climaxes, noting a late rally that prevented a complete collapse.
Over the following years, the market’s decline continued, reaching its lowest point in the summer of 1932. The Dow closed at 41.22, marking an 89 percent fall from its peak. Pre-crash levels were not seen again until November 1954.
The Opening of O’Hare International Airport in 1955
Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport began scheduling flights ten years after its site selection. Trans World Airlines Flight 94, destined for Paris and Cairo, was the first to depart from the world’s largest airport at that time.
Mayor Richard J. Daley anticipated the airport’s role in the jet age, envisioning vast future developments. Despite the grand opening, passengers faced limited amenities, relying on vending machines for snacks and drinks.
The Disappearance of Stacy Peterson in 2007
Stacy Peterson vanished after missing an appointment at her sister’s home, with her husband, Drew Peterson, as the last known person to see her. Drew Peterson, a Bolingbrook police officer, was convicted in 2012 for the murder of his third wife, Kathleen Savio.
In 2016, he received an additional 40-year sentence for attempting to orchestrate a murder-for-hire plot against the prosecutor responsible for his conviction.
Zach Miller’s Career-Threatening Injury in 2017
Chicago Bears tight end Zach Miller suffered a severe knee injury while attempting to catch a touchdown pass against the New Orleans Saints. The dislocation and torn popliteal artery required urgent vascular surgery, threatening Miller’s potential to walk.
After nine surgeries, Miller aimed to walk again. His resilience earned him the Ed Block Courage Award, voted on by his teammates.
Klay Thompson’s Record-Breaking Performance in 2018
Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors set an NBA record by making 14 three-pointers in a game against the Chicago Bulls. The Warriors dominated the United Center, scoring 92 points in the first half and securing a 149-124 victory.
The Controversial Hiring of Tony La Russa in 2020
The Chicago White Sox raised eyebrows by hiring Tony La Russa as manager in 2020. La Russa had previously led the Sox to a division title in 1983. However, controversy surrounded his appointment due to a DUI charge filed the day before the hiring announcement.
La Russa stepped down at the end of the 2022 season, citing health issues.
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