Atlanta, Georgia is one of the most sprawling and quickly growing cities in the United States. As the capital of Georgia, Atlanta and its surrounding counties are home to 5.3 million people and is the 9th most populous city in the United States. Its proximity to Hartsfield Jackson International Airport (the busiest airport in the world), MARTA (Metro Atlanta Rapid Transport Association), and several bustling interstates put its proximity in the heart of not only the Southeastern United States but also the country and world. The city has a rich history rooted in the Civil War, post-war expansion, Civil Rights, and currently as one of the leaders in sustainable development and integration. Moreover, the city is culturally, racially, sexually, and religiously diverse, with such locations as Buford Highway, 10th street, the Beltline, and several dozen historical sites adding to the cities success.

During the Civil War, Atlanta was a major rail and commercial center leading to the cities growth after the completion of the Georgia Railway in 1845 and the Mason and Western in 1846. Population and sprawl quickly grew to put it as a glaring target for Union forces, most notably Sherman's March to The Sea in 1864 which left much of Atlanta in ruins and displaced thousands. However, like a forest fire allows for regrowth of some species, Sherman's march allowed for the revitalization of Atlanta. The cities regrowth led to the expansion and enrichment of several pre-established universities in the area, like Georgia Tech, Morehouse, and Spelman. Additionally, several areas and sites were constructed which later became National Historic Sites, explored further on the map.

During the Civil Rights Movement, Atlanta became a cultural catalyst for growth and progress. Once again, the city was at the heart of a period of growth and experiencing great change. Churches, communities, colleges, and more all became important players in the regrowth of the city, like Historical HBCUs Morehouse and Spelman College which are further explored on the map. The city now houses several dozen historical sites and landmarks like the King Center, Carter Center, Civil Rights Center, among many others, to celebrate the cities growth and progress.

Explore Atlanta's Universities, Historical Sites, Major Transportation, Leisure, and Various Neighborhoods in this interactive map.

For best results, scroll through the site and utilize the prompts in the paragraphs for slider, WebApp, and external videos/sites.

https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/d5799b83eef44d25a5a3bcf1a9a22fed

Created by Atticus Lemahieu for CP4510 Fall '20 Georgia Institute of Technology