LaGuardia Airport, located in Queens, New York, is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers every year. It is named after Fiorello LaGuardia, a former mayor of New York City who played a significant role in the development of the aviation industry in America. In this article, we will explore why the airport is named after him, and delve into his life and legacy.
Who is Fiorello LaGuardia?
Fiorello Henry LaGuardia was born on December 11, 1882, in Greenwich Village, New York City, to Italian immigrant parents. He graduated from New York University School of Law in 1910 and practiced law for several years before entering politics. He was a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1917 to 1933, representing New York’s 14th congressional district. He was a prominent figure in the Republican Party and a fierce opponent of the Tammany Hall political machine, which dominated New York City politics at the time.
Early life and political career
LaGuardia’s parents were poor, and he grew up in a tenement building in Greenwich Village. He spoke Italian before he learned English and was known for his fluency in several languages. He was a passionate advocate for social justice and workers’ rights, and his political career was marked by his commitment to these causes. He fought against corruption and was known for his honesty and integrity. In 1916, he was elected to the New York State Assembly, where he served until 1919. In 1917, he was elected to the United States House of Representatives, where he served for 14 years.
Mayor of New York City
In 1933, LaGuardia was elected mayor of New York City, defeating the incumbent Tammany Hall-backed candidate. He was re-elected in 1937 and 1941, serving a total of 12 years as mayor. During his tenure, he implemented a number of reforms, including the establishment of the city’s first public housing projects, the expansion of the subway system, and the construction of new schools and hospitals. He also introduced a number of measures to combat corruption, including the creation of the city’s first ethics board.
New York City during LaGuardia’s tenure
LaGuardia’s mayoralty was marked by his commitment to social justice and his efforts to improve the lives of working-class New Yorkers. He was a strong supporter of the New Deal and worked closely with President Franklin D. Roosevelt to implement many of its programs in the city. He also played a key role in the city’s response to World War II, overseeing the construction of air-raid shelters and other measures to protect the city from attack.
Contributions to aviation industry
LaGuardia was a strong advocate for the aviation industry and played a significant role in its development in America. He recognized the potential of air travel to revolutionize transportation and worked to expand the city’s airports. He was instrumental in the construction of the city’s first municipal airport, Floyd Bennett Field, which opened in 1931. He also worked to establish the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversaw the development of the city’s airports and seaports.
The establishment of LaGuardia Airport
Following the success of Floyd Bennett Field, LaGuardia recognized the need for a new, larger airport to serve the growing number of passengers traveling to and from New York City. He proposed the construction of a new airport in Queens, which would be named in his honor. The airport was built on the site of the former Gala Amusement Park, and the construction was completed in 1939.
The airport’s early years and growth
LaGuardia Airport quickly became one of the busiest airports in the country, serving millions of passengers each year. It played a key role in the development of the aviation industry in America, and its success paved the way for the construction of other major airports across the country. Over the years, the airport has undergone a number of renovations and expansions, including the addition of new terminals and runways.
LaGuardia Airport today
Today, LaGuardia Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers each year. It is a hub for several major airlines, including Delta and American Airlines, and offers flights to destinations across the world. The airport has undergone a number of renovations in recent years, including the construction of a new terminal, which opened in 2020.
The legacy of Fiorello LaGuardia
Fiorello LaGuardia was a visionary leader who played a significant role in the development of New York City and the aviation industry in America. He was a champion of social justice and workers’ rights, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of Americans. The airport that bears his name is a testament to his vision and his commitment to improving the lives of working-class Americans.
Conclusion
LaGuardia Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers each year. It is named after Fiorello LaGuardia, a former mayor of New York City who played a significant role in the development of the aviation industry in America. LaGuardia was a visionary leader who was committed to social justice and workers’ rights, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of Americans. The airport that bears his name is a testament to his vision and his commitment to improving the lives of working-class Americans.
References
- "Fiorello H. LaGuardia." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 01 Apr. 2021.
- "LaGuardia Airport." Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, n.d. Web. 01 Apr. 2021.
- "Fiorello H. LaGuardia: Mayor of New York." National Park Service. U.S. Department of the Interior, n.d. Web. 01 Apr. 2021.
- "New York City." History.com. A&E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 01 Apr. 2021.
