Boston Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / November 19, 2024
Boston Then
Boston, the capital of Massachusetts and the seat of Suffolk County was originally settled in 1630.
Its name was chosen by Isaac Johnson, a leader of the Charlestown community, who named the new settlement after his hometown of Boston, located in Lincolnshire, England.
The name “Boston” itself originates from the English town’s patron saint, St. Botolph.
Before being renamed Boston, the area on the peninsula was known as “Shawmut,” a name used by William Blaxton, the area’s first European settler.
The Puritans who followed him also referred to the settlement as “Tremontaine,” a reference to the three mountains they saw in the area.
The renaming to Boston solidified the connection between the new colony and the English town, which was the birthplace of important figures like John Cotton, who emigrated with Isaac Johnson to New England.
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Boston History
Boston, established in 1630 by English Puritans, quickly evolved from a small, self-governing Puritan settlement into one of the leading cities in British North America.
The Puritans, led by John Winthrop, sought religious freedom and, with their commercial venture, laid the foundation for a city that would become a hub for trade and maritime commerce.
Boston’s natural harbor made it an ideal port for shipping and trade, and by the late 17th century, its fleet was among the largest in the English-speaking world.
The city’s role as a center of trade and maritime activity was crucial to its early prosperity.
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However, Boston’s history was not without tension. The religiously strict Puritan society of the early years faced internal dissent, and religious dissidents were expelled.
The Puritans’ isolation ended in 1686 when the English crown took control of the colony, establishing royal governance in Boston.
Despite this shift, the spirit of autonomy remained, and the city played a key role in resistance to British policies leading up to the American Revolution.
Events like the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party became iconic moments in the lead-up to independence.
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Post-Revolution, Boston faced economic challenges, but its merchants adapted, forging new trade routes to China, India, and other distant ports.
As the 19th century progressed, Boston shifted from a maritime economy to one based on manufacturing, especially textiles, and later on railroads.
Immigrant populations, particularly the Irish, transformed Boston’s social and political landscape.
The city’s infrastructure expanded, and by the late 19th century, Boston became a center for education and culture.
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Institutions like Harvard University, along with burgeoning cultural and intellectual movements, further cemented Boston’s place as a key player in American history.
However, Boston faced significant challenges in the 20th century, especially in dealing with racial inequality and political conflict.
The Irish Catholic political dominance led by figures like James Michael Curley created divisions with the city’s older Protestant elite.
Later, the struggle for racial equality, highlighted by the controversial busing policies of the 1970s, created intense social unrest.
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Despite these challenges, Boston emerged as a modern, vibrant city, becoming a center for high-tech industries and medical research in the latter half of the 20th century.
Today, Boston continues to be a leader in various sectors, including education, technology, and healthcare.
Yet, it remains deeply rooted in its history, from the revolutionary events of the 18th century to its intellectual legacy.
The city faces the challenge of balancing its historical identity with the demands of modern development, striving to remain a place where tradition and innovation coexist.
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Boston Now
Boston is not only the capital of Massachusetts but also one of the most historically significant cities in the United States.
As the cultural and financial hub of the New England region, it plays a central role in the economy, education, and innovation within the Northeastern United States.
With a population of 675,647 as of the 2020 census, Boston ranks as the third-largest city in the region, following New York City and Philadelphia.
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However, its metropolitan area, known as Greater Boston, is much larger, with a population of nearly 5 million.
This makes it the largest metro area in New England and the eleventh-largest in the country.
Boston’s prominence extends far beyond its population size. It is recognized globally as a leader in education and research, housing some of the world’s most prestigious institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
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These universities fuel Boston’s role as a global pioneer in biotechnology, scientific research, and innovation.
The city has become the world’s largest biotechnology hub, and its economy is bolstered by industries such as law, medicine, engineering, business, and finance.
In addition to its thriving entrepreneurial environment, with nearly 5,000 startups, Boston has recently emerged as a leader in artificial intelligence, further cementing its reputation as a forward-thinking and dynamic city.
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Geographically, Boston is situated on Massachusetts Bay, which is part of the Atlantic Ocean, giving it access to maritime trade and a scenic waterfront.
The city’s relatively small land area—48.4 square miles—includes large portions of water, such as the Charles River and Boston Harbor.
This unique geography contributes to the city’s vibrant waterfront culture and provides numerous recreational and business opportunities related to water transport and tourism.
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The city’s elevation is low, with Logan International Airport sitting just 19 feet above sea level, though the highest point, Bellevue Hill, rises to 330 feet.
This proximity to the coast and the harbor shapes both the city’s climate and its development.
Boston’s influence is not limited to its economy and geography; it also stands out for its commitment to philanthropy and environmental sustainability.
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Boston households lead the nation in average charitable contributions, reflecting a strong culture of giving.
The city’s businesses and institutions are also committed to environmental sustainability, making Boston one of the top cities for investment in green technologies and practices.
This dedication to sustainability is reflected in the city’s infrastructure, public services, and approach to business development, ensuring that Boston continues to be a beacon of progress and a model for other cities across the country.
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FAQs
Boston is in the state of Massachusetts.
Boston is famous for its rich history, being the site of key events in the American Revolution, and for its prestigious universities like Harvard and MIT.
It’s also known for its role in biotechnology, innovation, and its iconic sports teams like the Boston Red Sox.
Yes, Boston is considered expensive to live in, with a high cost of housing, transportation, and general living expenses, especially in its urban areas.
Yes, Boston is still a major city, serving as a cultural, economic, and educational hub, and maintaining a strong influence in industries like finance, healthcare, and technology.