Crowded Tenements in Big Cities — Reading Comprehension

During the late 1800s and early 1900s, many people moved to big U.S. cities from other countries and from small towns. They hoped to find better jobs and a safer life. Because so many people arrived, the cities grew very fast. Buildings called tenements were built to hold many families at once.

Tenements were tall, narrow buildings. Each floor had several small apartments. These apartments often had only one or two rooms. Sometimes, families of six or more lived in just one room. There was little space, and it was hard to keep clean. Most tenements did not have running water or indoor bathrooms. People had to share toilets in the hallway or outside. This made it easy for diseases to spread.

Many families worked together to make life better. Mothers and fathers found jobs in factories, shops, or as street vendors. Children often helped by working or caring for younger siblings. People from the same country often lived in the same building. They shared food, stories, and holidays from their homeland. This helped them feel less alone and more at home.

Some leaders fought to improve life in tenements. Jacob Riis, a reporter, took photos and wrote about the poor living conditions. He said, "There is not a drop of water to drink in the house." His work made city leaders pay attention. Laws were passed to require better plumbing and more windows for fresh air. Over time, tenements became safer and cleaner.

Interesting Fact: Some tenement buildings are now museums. People can visit to see how families lived in the past.

What is a tenement?

Who often lived together in tenements?

What job did Jacob Riis have?

Why did people move to cities?

How did people help each other in tenements?

What did new laws require for tenements?

Tenements were always clean and safe.

What does plumbing mean?