Historical Changes in Children's Access to U.S. Cities

A Critical Review

Abstract

Although urban children's lack of access to their neighborhoods is a problem widely acknowledged as having roots in the historical development of cities, few investigations have illuminated this. The author offers aframework for the analysis of the ideas and institutions that have shaped public environments since the 1830s. This is done through a critical review of public policy, sentiment, and action regarding housing, parks, playgrounds, and recreation centers, with reference to New York City.