American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which city exemplifies the early American suburbanization seen between 1860 and 1870?

1. Radburn, NJ

2. Riverside, IL

3. Lake Forest, IL

4. Santa Monica, CA

The correct answer is: Riverside, IL

Riverside, Illinois, is a prime example of early American suburbanization that took place between 1860 and 1870. This period marked a significant shift in urban development, where cities began to expand outward, leading to the creation of suburbs that catered to the growing middle class. Riverside was designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who was instrumental in shaping urban parks and suburban landscapes. The village was established with a focus on harmony between nature and residential living, featuring curvilinear streets and a layout that emphasized green spaces, which was innovative for its time. This design aimed to provide a healthier living environment, distancing residents from the hustle and bustle of city life while still maintaining access to urban amenities. In contrast, Radburn, NJ, and Lake Forest, IL, represent later developments in suburban planning, and Santa Monica, CA, became known for its beachside allure much later in the 20th century. Therefore, Riverside serves as a key historical reference point for understanding the dynamics of early suburbanization during the post-Civil War era in the United States.