The tenth most populous municipality in Canada is Hamilton. Hamilton is known for its most important economic supply, manufacturing, and is evidently the most industrialized city in the country (Houghton 6). George Hamilton, a Canadian politician, purchased land after the War of 1812. The land expanded, first with a courthouse and then with the construction of a prison. Prominent buildings began to emerge and eventually the expanded territory became the city of Hamilton (Weaver 15-16). Through examining Hamilton's economic growth and development, the long-term prospects of major industries, and how the city deals with recessions, one can see that Hamilton has grown significantly over the past two centuries. Hamilton is known as a manufacturing city with two major metals industries, iron and steel. In 1892, a primary steel manufacturing plant was built, and the city of Hamilton offered “free land, cash bonuses, and tax breaks if the company [began] operating by 1894” (Freeman 84). This offering was intended to attract more companies to establish headquarters in Hamilton, resulting in increased economic growth and development in the city. In this period there was the advancement of electrical energy. This prompted the construction of a steam power plant that would produce electricity for the trams. A group of five men started a company called Cataract Power Company and came up with the idea of “alternating current” (Freeman 84). The company was able to transmit electricity from St. Catharines to Hamilton using transmission towers. The city was equipped with a primary steel production plant and electricity and, therefore, experienced greater economic growth. Over the years, electricity became inexpensive, attracting many American steel companies. Union meetings were held in homes and restaurants (Freeman 145). Cory Ruf, a journalist, wrote a report on Hamilton and the 2008 recession. In the article, Hamilton is still trying to get out of the 2008 recession. There are still improvements as “the city is making economic gains, its social welfare and overall poverty rates are still above pre-recession levels” (2013). However, during the recession, Hamilton had large income inequality. · In the past, Hamilton was known for its heavy manufacturing facilities. But the city has other industries that make it a desirable location, and many residents take pride in Hamilton's rich history and culture. Through research into Hamilton's history, economic growth and development, the city has evolved significantly.
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