Part 7/11:
Burnham's approach to urban planning was inspired by European models, particularly Paris, which serves as a stark contrast to the democratic ideals ostensibly championed by American urban planners. While cities such as Philadelphia were receiving facades of beauty, they were also undergoing significant cultural shifts that erased their historical identities. Critics of the City Beautiful movement argued that it was reminiscent of authoritarian practices rather than a genuine attempt to beautify urban spaces.