The World's Columbian Exposition

The Administration Building, one of the many temporary buildings erected specifically for the Columbian Exposition. 

Image courtesy of the University of Pennsylvania. 

In 1893, Chicago was the home to the World's Columbian Exposition, a celebration of American progress in the time since the 'discovery' of America by Christopher Columbus. Heralded for its anthropological displays, scientific advacements, and architectural advancements, the Columbian Exposition was a very momentous occasion in the United States towards the end of the nineteenth century.