After what was Chicago named?

Travel Destinations

By Kristy Tolley

The Origin of Chicago’s Name

The name "Chicago" is recognized all over the world as a symbol of the bustling and vibrant city in the Midwest of the United States. However, few people know the origin of the name, or why it was chosen for the city. The meaning behind the name Chicago is both intriguing and complex, and can be traced back to the indigenous peoples who inhabited the area centuries ago.

The Birth of Chicago: A Brief History

Chicago’s history can be traced back to the early 1600s when French explorer and fur trader, René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, discovered the area where the city now stands. In the years that followed, the area became a hub for trade and commerce, attracting a diverse array of settlers from all over the world. However, it wasn’t until the 1830s that Chicago began to emerge as a major city, thanks in large part to the construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, which connected the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River.

Early Inhabitants and their Language

The early inhabitants of the area now known as Chicago were members of various indigenous tribes, including the Potawatomi, Miami, and Sauk. These tribes spoke different languages, and it is believed that the name "Chicago" has its roots in the Algonquian language family, which was spoken by some of these tribes.

The French Connection: Chicago’s First Name

The first known reference to the area now known as Chicago was made by French explorer and fur trader, Henri de Tonti, in the late 1600s. He referred to the area as "Chicagou," which is believed to be derived from the Algonquian word "shikaakwa," meaning "wild onion" or "place of the stinky onion."

The English Influence: Renaming Fort Dearborn

In the early 1800s, the area was colonized by the British, who renamed it Fort Dearborn. However, the name "Chicago" persisted, and it was eventually officially adopted as the city’s name in the mid-1800s.

The Algonquian Influence: Possible Origins

While the French and British settlers played a role in shaping Chicago’s history, it is believed that the name "Chicago" has its roots in the Algonquian language family. Some believe that the name is derived from the Algonquian word "shikaakwa," meaning "wild onion" or "place of the stinky onion." Others argue that the name is derived from the Algonquian word "cikagi," meaning "big wild onion."

The "Onion Field" Myth: Debunking the Legend

One popular legend about the origin of the name "Chicago" is that it comes from the smell of wild onions that used to grow in the area. While this may sound plausible, there is no evidence to support this claim, and it is likely nothing more than a myth.

The Role of the Chicago River in Naming

Another theory about the origin of the name "Chicago" is that it is derived from the Chicago River, which flows through the city. Some believe that the river’s name is derived from the Algonquian word "shikaakwa," meaning "wild onion" or "place of the stinky onion," while others believe it is derived from the Algonquian word "chicagoua," meaning "skunk."

How Chicago’s Name was Officially Established

The name "Chicago" was officially adopted as the city’s name in the mid-1800s, replacing the name Fort Dearborn. The decision to adopt the name was made by the city’s Board of Public Works, and it was ratified by the Illinois State Legislature in 1837.

The Enduring Legacy of the Name "Chicago"

The name "Chicago" has become synonymous with the city itself, and it is recognized all over the world as a symbol of the Windy City’s history, culture, and identity. The name has endured for centuries, and it continues to serve as a reminder of the city’s rich and complex past.

Other Famous Cities Named After Indigenous Words

Chicago is not the only city in the United States that is named after an indigenous word. Other famous cities with indigenous names include Albuquerque, Kansas City, and Seattle.

Conclusion: The Significance of Chicago’s Name

The name "Chicago" is both intriguing and complex, and it serves as a reminder of the city’s rich and complex past. From its roots in the Algonquian language family to its enduring legacy as one of the world’s most iconic cities, the name "Chicago" has played a vital role in shaping the identity of this vibrant and dynamic city.

Photo of author

Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

Leave a Comment