Culture Region

Boston is part of the Megalopolis, also referred to as the headquarters of America. The megalopolis dominates the entire nation in population, economic importance, educational opportunities, and health facilities. It extends roughly from southern New Hamsphire to northern Virginia and contains dozens of metropolitan areas. They are joined together by freeways and railways. Megalopolis contains about 50 million people, or close to 1/5th the total population of the United States. Because of Boston's location next to a harbor, it is a center of immigration. It has become one of the gateways to America, bringing people from Spain to Ethiopia. Boston specifically had a significant black population at the time of the American Revolution due to slavery. Boston is also noted for its educational advances with many colleges and universities to choose from.

Human Impact on the Environment

The Boston Harbor Project is committed to restoring the harbor to what it was from what it is today. "Boston Harbor is made up of fifty square miles and includes 180 miles of shoreline and 30 islands. It is a precious and valuable part of New England, but over the past three and a half centuries, we have not treated Boston Harbor with the respect and gratitude that it deserves from us. Ten years ago, it was one of the most polluted harbors in the United States." In 1796, there were a series of illnesses breaking out, the first in many contamination to come to the harbor. As early as the latter part of the 1800's, warnings were posted to not swim in the Boston Harbor for fear of boils. The Clean Water Act was passed in 1972, requiring secondary treatment for discharged waste water from all publicly owned treatment plants.

Recreational Resources

The location of Boston to the bay makes the ocean a major recreational resource in the area. Another resources would be the miles of bike paths that filter through the city. There is also the Stone Zoo and the Franklin Park Zoo. There are boating centers as well as yoga and dance studios. There are many visual and performing art activities, parades, feasts and festivals, and walks and races. The Boston Public Garden is also a popular place for recreation.

Neighborhoods

"While many cities are defined by their skylines, Boston is distinguished by its vibrant neighborhoods. Indeed, Boston's strength, diversity and vitality are all rooted in her 21 neighborhoods, where neighborhood pride and cultures from all over the world are cherished and celebrated. Although each neighborhood has its own personality and distinct appeal, all of the neighborhoods demonstrate Boston's changing face, as this historic capital has become a magnet for all of the world's citizens. These new immigrants have joined native Bostonians and transplants from across the country to make Boston the world-class city it is today."



The North End of Boston