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Ed Koch and the Rebuilding of New York City

Ethan Gray

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Published in Ed Koch And The Rebuilding Of New York City (Columbia History Of Urban Life)

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Ed Koch was a charismatic and controversial mayor of New York City who oversaw the city's recovery from the fiscal crisis of the 1970s. Koch's policies, such as his focus on economic development and his support for the city's cultural institutions, helped to revitalize the city and restore its reputation as a global center of commerce and culture.

Ed Koch and the Rebuilding of New York City (Columbia History of Urban Life)

by Rip Bulkeley

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Language	:	English
File size	:	1994 KB
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Print length	:	526 pages

Early Life and Career

Koch was born in the Bronx in 1924. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and then graduated from City College of New York and New York University School of Law. After working as an attorney, Koch entered politics in 1963 when he was elected to the New York City Council. He served in the Council for 12 years, including four years as Council President.

Mayor of New York City

Koch was elected mayor in 1977, defeating incumbent mayor Abe Beame. The city was facing a severe fiscal crisis at the time, and Koch implemented a number of austerity measures to balance the budget. He also focused on promoting economic development, and he oversaw the construction of a number of major projects, including the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and the South Street Seaport.

Koch was a strong supporter of the city's cultural institutions. He increased funding for the arts and helped to establish the New York City Cultural Affairs Department. He also supported the construction of new cultural facilities, such as the Museum of Modern Art's new building in Midtown Manhattan.

Legacy

Koch left office in 1989. He is credited with helping to revitalize New York City and restore its reputation as a global center of commerce and culture. He was a popular figure in the city, and he is still remembered as one of the city's most colorful and charismatic mayors.