Newark

Newark, originally founded in 1666 by Puritans from the New Haven Colony, was established by Robert Treat and others. Seeking religious freedom, these Puritans settled the area and named it Newark after Newark-on-Trent in England. This marked the beginning of one of the oldest major cities in the United States, playing a significant role in American history.

The German American Bund was an organization that promoted Nazi ideology in the United States. In 1937, they held a rally in Newark, New Jersey, sparking protests and heightened tensions due to the presence of Nazi supporters. The event highlighted the challenges of fascism spreading in the U.S. during the pre-World War II period and was a significant moment in Newark's history of political activism.

The Newark riots of 1967 were one of the pivotal events in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Sparked by the arrest and beating of a Black cab driver, John Smith, the riots lasted for six days and resulted in 26 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The riots highlighted issues of police brutality, racial discrimination, and economic inequality, and had a profound impact on the city's social and economic structure.

In 1969, Rutgers University established what is now known as the Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark. This institution has since played a crucial role in medical education, healthcare, and research in the New Jersey area, serving as a pivotal healthcare provider. The founding of this medical school marked an important development in Newark’s contribution to medical science.

The Newark Museum, one of the largest museums in New Jersey, expanded with the opening of the Victor Building in 1970. This expansion allowed the museum to enhance its cultural, educational, and art exhibitions with more gallery space. The museum plays a significant role in the arts community of Newark and houses an extensive collection of works from around the world, including American, Asian, and African art.

Kenneth Gibson was elected as the Mayor of Newark on October 16, 1973, becoming the first African American mayor of a major Northeastern U.S. city. His election represented a significant milestone in the political evolution of Newark, indicating shifts in urban politics and racial representation. Gibson's leadership focused on addressing urban decay and social issues prevalent in Newark.

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) officially opened its doors in Newark on October 10, 1995. As one of the largest performing arts centers in the United States, NJPAC has played an instrumental role in the cultural revitalization of Newark. It hosts a variety of performances ranging from concerts to theater productions, promoting local culture and arts education.

On November 6, 2007, Cory Booker was elected Mayor of Newark, New Jersey. Known for his reformist agenda, Booker's tenure focused on reducing crime, transforming urban infrastructure, and improving city governance. His political career gained national attention, and his progressive policies had lasting impacts on the city. Booker later went on to become a U.S. Senator for New Jersey.

The Prudential Center, a multi-purpose indoor arena in Newark, opened on November 23, 2010. It serves as the home for the NHL's New Jersey Devils and has become a central hub for sports and entertainment events. The arena's opening was a key development in Newark's efforts to boost economic activity and revitalize its downtown area, attracting large crowds and tourism.

On June 14, 2014, Newark was designated a member city of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the field of Media Arts. This acknowledgment was based on Newark's rich artistic community and its contributions to media arts. Being part of this network has fostered international collaboration and cultural exchange, enhancing the city's global profile as a hub for creativity and technology.