Betty O'Shaughnessy and Kari Lydersen: Chicago's Modern Mayors

Filled with expert analysis and valuable insights, Chicago’s Modern Mayors illuminates a time of transition and change and considers the politicians who--for better and worse--shaped the Chicago of today. Join us at Bookends & Beginnings for a book talk with Betty O'Shaughnessy, co-editor, and author and Northwestern professor Kari Lydersen.

Chicago’s transformation into a global city began at City Hall. Dick Simpson and Betty O’Shaughnessy edit in-depth analyses of the five mayors that guided the city through this transition beginning with Harold Washington’s 1983 election: Washington, Eugene Sawyer, Richard M. Daley, Rahm Emmanuel, and Lori Lightfoot. Though the respected political science, sociologist, and journalist contributors approach their subjects from distinct perspectives, each essay addresses three essential issues: how and why each mayor won the office; whether the city council of their time acted as a rubber stamp or independent body; and the ways the unique qualities of each mayor’s administration and accomplishments influenced their legacy.

Registration for this event is free. Copies of Chicago's Modern Mayors will be available for purchase in-store, and the MiniBar will be open throughout the event.

Host or Publisher Bookends & Beginnings