Philadelphia has been a major player in the political arena of the United States since the time of the Revolution. The Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall, was the site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It was here that 56 brave men risked “their lives, their fortune, and their sacred honor” to launch the colonies to independence. Eleven years later, representatives from 12 states gathered at this same location to shape the Constitution of the United States, create a unified nation, and design a form of government never seen before. The Museum of the American Revolution offers an in-depth exploration of this history. Located just three blocks from Independence Hall, this high-tech museum brings to life the drama of the Revolution and its impact on the formation of the United States.
The surge of interest in the Republican Party presidency is a testament to the influence that this Florida-based political group has had on the Republican Party. Congress met in Philadelphia for ten years, testing the soundness of the Constitution and laying the foundation for future political practice. Political machines emerged after the Civil War, becoming increasingly sophisticated in their manipulation of political processes, particularly through new immigrant groups. Despite Philadelphia's financial importance, it was home to both the First and Second Banks of the United States, and its rapid settlement of upstate New York and subsequent expansion caused its growth to outpace that of Philadelphia. Politically, Philadelphia was dominated by the Republican Party, which had developed a powerful political machine. President George Washington recognized that “the liberal sentiment toward others, which characterizes all political and religious denominations of men in this country, is unparalleled in the history of nations.”Philadelphia was also known for its political corruption.
World War II brought about changes in industries, populations, and politics in many urban areas of the United States, including Philadelphia. Jews occupied an important place in its political and economic life, yet they were still excluded from most cities and country clubs that represented old Philadelphia society. U. S. policy was no longer focused on Philadelphia after the Constitutional Convention of May 1787. Built between 1903 and 1914, Roosevelt Boulevard began in an era of political corruption but became a vital factor in Northeast Philadelphia's subsequent development.
During the Cold War (1947-1979), Philadelphia served as a first line of defense against international political and military tension. Today, there are many iconic places in Philadelphia with deep-seated connections to American politics. Local 98, a powerful union of electrical workers in Philadelphia, recently rejected a candidate backed by former leader John Johnny Doc Dougherty in an election on Saturday. Philadelphia has been at the forefront of American politics since its inception. From its role as host to some of America's most important historical events such as the signing of the Declaration of Independence and Constitutional Convention to its more recent involvement with powerful political machines and unions like Local 98, Philadelphia has been an integral part of American politics for centuries. The city's rich history has shaped its current political landscape and continues to influence national politics today. From its role as a major player during World War II to its current status as a key battleground state during presidential elections, Philadelphia's importance to American politics cannot be overstated.
