As we look at the political geography of Boston, I will open up the area to the entire state of Massachusetts. Massachusetts is most notable as a democratic state yet in recent decades, the color is not so bright. The state is composed of both liberal Republicans and conservative Democrates. Taking a look at the city of Boston, in 1990, the vote landed 45% democrat and 48% republican. By 2002, the vote was 44% democrat and 49% republican.
http://www.boston.com/news/globe/ideas/articles/2006/06/04/the_state_im_in/
Government and Society
Health and welfare – Massachusetts is one of the chief medical centers of the world as well as a notable leader in research. In early Massachusetts’ history, the state recognized the responsibility to care for those who were ill. In 1818, the state took up the responsibility to care for the mentally ill and others who were disabled. In 1854, the state opened the first almshouse and in 1898, the state opened the first hospital for tubercular patients.
Education – as noted earlier, Harvard College (now Harvard University) was founded in 1636 in Massachusetts. Massachusetts also set the stage for kindergarten and secondary education in 1840. The state has also many private preparatory schools including Roxbury Latin School, founded in 1646.
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/368402/Massachusetts/79350/Settlement-patterns
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