American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which of the following movements was inspired by Burnham's White City at the Columbian Expo?

1. New Urbanism

2. The City Beautiful Movement

3. Smart Growth

4. Garden City Movement

The correct answer is: The City Beautiful Movement

The City Beautiful Movement emerged in response to the aesthetic and urban planning principles showcased during the Chicago World's Fair, also known as the Columbian Exposition, in 1893. Burnham’s vision for the White City emphasized grand boulevards, parks, and classical architecture, aiming to create an ideal urban environment that uplifted the spirit of its inhabitants. This movement sought to address the problem of urban decay and social issues through beautification and the creation of public spaces designed for community use. Proponents of the City Beautiful Movement believed that an aesthetically pleasing city could foster civic pride, reduce crime, and improve public health. By emphasizing the role of design in public space and urban form, the movement had a lasting impact on city planning practices in the United States. Other movements like New Urbanism and Smart Growth emphasize different principles such as walkability, sustainability, and mixed-use development, while the Garden City Movement focuses on the integration of green spaces with urban living. While these movements were influenced by the evolution of urban planning post-White City, they were not directly inspired by Burnham’s vision in the same way the City Beautiful Movement was.