Cicero, a western suburb of Chicago, was incorporated as a city in 1867. It was named after the great Roman orator and statesman, Marcus Tullius Cicero.

Early on, Cicero was a rural community with farms and agriculture being major industries. However, in the early 1900s, Cicero saw a rapid industrial development, with factories and businesses popping up throughout the town.

One of the most significant events in Cicero’s history occurred during the prohibition era. Al Capone, the infamous gangster of the time, ruled over the town, using it as his base of operations. Despite the turmoil caused by organized crime activity during that period, Cicero eventually recovered and thrived again following that era.

During World War II, Cicero became a bustling center for war production and manufacturing. The population of Cicero reached its peak in the late 1950s at around 90,000 residents.

Since then, Cicero has experienced ups and downs as it has been affected by economic changes and demographic shifts. The town saw an influx of Hispanic immigrants during the 1980s and 1990s that have significantly impacted both the culture and economy of the area.

Cicero today is a diverse community with a population just over 80,000 people. The town offers an array of recreational and educational opportunities for residents. The Pink Line CTA train provides fast access to downtown Chicago for commuters while various community events throughout the year provide entertainment and celebration for locals.

One challenge Cicero faces is balancing civic responsibilities with its economic future. The town is working to boost economic development initiatives while still adequately supporting local public services such as schools and infrastructure.

Overall, Cicero’s history teaches us about the resilience of communities in facing challenges. The town has pulled through a lot over its lifetime and continues to move forward with pride for its past and hope for its future.