Joliet Live Cam

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History

Joliet is a city located in Will County in the state of Illinois, United States. The city was founded in 1834 on the banks of the Des Plaines River and named after Louis Jolliet, a French Canadian explorer who explored the Mississippi River with Jacques Marquette.

In the early days, Joliet was a small town centered around farming and agriculture. The construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in the 1840s helped to transform the town into a transportation hub, as it provided a water route connecting the Great Lakes with the Mississippi River. This led to the growth of industry and commerce in the area, and Joliet became a major transportation center for goods and people.

The city also played an important role in the development of the American steel industry. In the late 19th century, Joliet became home to several steel mills, including the Joliet Iron and Steel Company, which was founded in 1869. The steel mills brought jobs and prosperity to the area, and Joliet became known as "Steel City."

In addition to steel, Joliet was also home to other industries, such as quarrying, brick-making, and glass-making. The city was also a center for agriculture, and farmers from the surrounding areas brought their crops to Joliet to be sold and shipped.

Over the years, Joliet has faced its share of challenges, including economic downturns, labor disputes, and social unrest. However, the city has also experienced periods of growth and prosperity. Today, Joliet is a diverse and vibrant city with a population of over 147,000 people. It is home to several colleges and universities, including the University of St. Francis and Joliet Junior College, as well as a number of museums, parks, and cultural institutions.