American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What was the City Beautiful movement primarily focused on?

1. Improving industrial areas with parks

2. Creating employment and promoting civic pride

3. Implementing housing policies for low-income families

4. Promoting suburban developments

The correct answer is: Creating employment and promoting civic pride

The City Beautiful movement was primarily focused on creating vibrant urban environments that fostered civic pride and a sense of community through the integration of aesthetic beauty and functional urban planning. It emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to the rapid industrialization and urbanization of cities, which often resulted in overcrowded and unsightly living conditions. Advocates of the City Beautiful movement believed that the design and layout of cities should reflect beauty and order, thereby enhancing the quality of life for residents. By incorporating grand boulevards, scenic parks, and monumental public buildings into urban designs, the movement aimed to elevate the social, moral, and aesthetic standards of cities. This focus on beautification served as a catalyst for civic pride among citizens, encouraging them to take an active role in their communities and to participate in civic activities. Therefore, the emphasis on creating employment and promoting civic pride aligns closely with the goals and impacts of the City Beautiful movement.