What did the world’s cities look like in the 19th century, a time of revolutions, empires, and unprecedented growth? In an era where industrialization changed the face of the planet, some urban centers exploded in size, becoming bustling hubs of industry, trade, and political power. But these population booms came at a cost—overcrowding, poverty, and social unrest were the norm for many. Today, we’ll take you on a journey back in time to uncover the 10 largest cities of the 19th century, revealing not only their staggering populations but also the fascinating socio-economic and political backdrops that made them global titans. Stick around to see how these cities shaped the modern urban world.
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