The Fantastic Fire of 1871 was a terrible occasion that forever altered the city of Chicago. It started on October 8, 1871, and raged for 2 days, leaving a path of destruction in its wake. The fire ruined over 17,000 buildings and displaced over 100,000 individuals. It was among the most destructive fires in American history and had an extensive effect on the city's architecture, culture, and sense of community. Causes of the Fire: A Perfect Storm The Terrific Fire of 1871 was the outcome of a perfec