Across the tapestry of American history, ghettos have emerged as stark reminders of social inequality and urban neglect. From the rapid industrialization of the late 19th century to the great migrations of African Americans and immigrants, city neighborhoods transformed under the pressures of overcrowding, racial segregation, and economic decline. Policies like redlining and discriminatory housing practices confined millions to isolated urban enclaves. These forces combined to create communities marked by poverty, struggle, and resilience—places where hope and hardship often collided on the same city blocks. Understanding these origins is essential to grasping the enduring legacy of America’s most notorious ghettos.