The course will represent a close study of eight carefully selected Chicago neighborhoods chosen to represent examples of gentrification, racial succession, stable integration and stagnation. The course will explore the forces which have lead to their present state by looking at survey data, neighborhood histories and observational materials; and suggest emendations to existing theories about such processes. The course will culminate with a guided tour of the eight neighborhoods, many of which have substantial historical significance. If numbers make it possible, the tour will conclude at an ethnic restaurant in one of the neighborhoods.