The Chicago Bread Riot of 1872.

The Bread Riot began in the winter of 1872 due to the worst depression of the 19th century. Thousands of people marched on the offices of the Chicago Relief and Aid Society on LaSalle Street, demanding access to the money donated by people of the United States and other countries after the Great Chicago Fire.

A lot of people who came out to protest for food assistance were herded into the LaSalle Street tunnel and beaten by police.

The LaSalle Street Tunnel was Chicago’s second tunnel under the Chicago River completed on July 4, 1871, dating this colorized photograph as being taken before the Great Chicago Fire occurred the night of October 8, 1871. The entrance on the north side of the Chicago River was Michigan Street (Hubbard Street today) and Randolph Street on the south side of the river. 

Compiled by Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.