History of North America

What is the origin of name Chicago?

There are several theories about the origin of the name "Chicago". One common theory is that it is a Native American word, derived from the Miami-Illinois word "shikaakwa", which means "wild onion" or "skunk". This theory is supported by the fact that the area around Chicago was once known for its large population of wild onions.

Another theory is that the name "Chicago" comes from the Potawatomi word "checagou", which means "strong" or "powerful". This theory is based on the fact that the Potawatomi were one of the most powerful tribes in the region at the time when the city was founded.

Finally, some historians believe that the name "Chicago" is simply a corruption of the French word "chegagou", which means "marshy ground". This theory is based on the fact that the area around Chicago was once a swampy, marshy area.

Ultimately, the true origin of the name "Chicago" is still a matter of debate. However, the most widely accepted theory is that it is a Native American word, derived from the Miami-Illinois word "shikaakwa".