What is the primary geographical distinction of The Bronx compared to the other four boroughs of New York City?

The Bronx is unique among New York City's five boroughs as it is the only one located primarily on the U.S. mainland, whereas the other boroughs are situated on islands. This mainland location sets it apart in the city's geography.

How is The Bronx divided geographically, and what historical significance does this division hold?

The Bronx River divides the borough into a hillier western section and a flatter eastern section. This division also reflects historical annexation patterns, with areas west of the river annexed in 1874 and areas east annexed in 1895, marking distinct phases of its incorporation into New York City.

What is the approximate land area and population of The Bronx according to the 2020 census?

The Bronx has a land area of approximately 42 square miles (109 km²) and a population of 1,472,654 as recorded in the 2020 census, making it the fourth most populous borough.

Which major cultural and recreational institutions are located within The Bronx?

The Bronx is home to significant open spaces and institutions including Woodlawn Cemetery, Van Cortlandt Park, Pelham Bay Park, the New York Botanical Garden, the Bronx Zoo, and Yankee Stadium, contributing to its cultural and recreational landscape.

What is the significance of the Thain Family Forest within The Bronx?

The Thain Family Forest, located at the New York Botanical Garden, is notable as the largest remaining tract of the original forest that once covered New York City, dating back thousands of years and preserving a piece of the region's ancient natural history.

What were the original names used by Native Americans for the area now known as The Bronx?

The native Siwanoy band of Lenape called the area Rananchqua, and other Native Americans referred to it as Keskeskeck, reflecting the indigenous history of the land before European settlement.

Who is Jonas Bronck, and how is he connected to the naming of The Bronx?

Jonas Bronck was a Swedish-born settler who established the first European settlement in the area in 1639 as part of the New Netherland colony, a Dutch colonial territory. The area became known as 'Bronck's Land' and eventually 'The Bronx' in his honor.

Where is Jonas Bronck believed to have originated from, and where did he establish his farm?

Jonas Bronck is believed to have originated from Småland, Sweden, and he established his farm, named 'Emmaus,' near the present-day intersection of Willis Avenue and 132nd Street in Mott Haven.

How is the definite article 'the' typically used in reference to The Bronx?

The definite article 'the' is consistently used with 'Bronx' in both legal and colloquial references, such as 'the Borough of the Bronx' and 'the County of the Bronx,' which is a common linguistic feature for place names derived from rivers.

What is the official mailing address format used by the United States Postal Service for The Bronx?

The United States Postal Service uses 'Bronx, NY' for mailing addresses, omitting the definite article 'the' for the purpose of automated address scanning.

How did The Bronx's territory become part of New York City?

The territory that now constitutes Bronx County was originally part of Westchester County. It was annexed by New York City in two major stages: the western part (West Bronx) in 1874, and the eastern part (East Bronx) in 1895, marking distinct phases of its incorporation into the city's jurisdiction.

What was the significance of the King's Bridge in the early history of The Bronx?

The King's Bridge, built in 1693, was a toll bridge controlled by Frederick Philipse. Local farmers resented the tolls, leading to the construction of a free bridge in 1759, and the King's Bridge toll was eventually abolished after the American Revolutionary War.

Which towns from Westchester County were incorporated into New York City to form parts of The Bronx?

The towns of Kingsbridge, West Farms, and Morrisania, along with parts of Westchester, Eastchester, and Pelham, were incorporated into New York City, forming the basis of The Bronx's territory.

How did the population of The Bronx change throughout the 20th century?

The Bronx experienced a population boom from 1900 to 1929, growing sixfold. This was followed by a slowing of growth and eventual decline from the mid-20th century into the 1980s, with a resurgence beginning in the late 1980s that continues to the present day.

What factors contributed to the urban decay observed in parts of The Bronx during the mid-to-late 20th century?

Factors contributing to urban decay included the construction of the Cross Bronx Expressway, the development of high-rise public housing projects, potential redlining (a discriminatory practice in financial services), and a reduction in municipal services like fire fighting. A wave of arson in the late 1970s also significantly impacted the borough.

What marked the beginning of The Bronx's economic and developmental resurgence?

The Bronx began experiencing economic and developmental resurgence starting in the late 1980s, stimulated by housing plans and community rebuilding efforts that focused on improving social, economic, and environmental infrastructure.

What is the total area of Bronx County, and what percentage of it is water?

Bronx County has a total area of 57 square miles (150 km²), of which approximately 15 square miles (39 km²), or 27%, is water, contributing to its irregular shoreline.

What type of bedrock characterizes the West Bronx, and what is its composition?

The bedrock of the West Bronx is primarily Fordham gneiss, a metamorphic rock known for its heavy banding and significant content of pink feldspar.

Which major parks are located in the northern and central parts of The Bronx?

Major parks and open spaces in the northern and central Bronx include Woodlawn Cemetery, Van Cortlandt Park, Pelham Bay Park, the New York Botanical Garden, and the Bronx Zoo, offering significant green space within the urban environment.

What is the significance of the Bronx River being entirely freshwater?

The Bronx River is significant as it is the only river within New York City that is entirely freshwater, flowing south from Westchester County into the East River and dividing the borough.

Which islands are part of The Bronx, and what is the function of Rikers Island?

The Bronx includes several small islands in the East River and Long Island Sound, such as City Island and Hart Island. Rikers Island, which houses the city's jail complex, is also administratively part of The Bronx.

Where is the highest elevation in The Bronx located, and what is its approximate height?

The highest elevation in The Bronx is approximately 280 feet (85 meters) and is situated in the northwest corner of the borough, west of Van Cortlandt Park.

What was the impact of the Chestnut Blight pathogen first identified at the Bronx Zoo?

The Chestnut Blight pathogen, first identified outside Asia at the Bronx Zoo in 1904, spread across eastern North America, devastating American Chestnut trees and causing significant ecological and economic damage to the region's forests.

What are the two primary systems used to divide The Bronx into regions?

The two main systems for dividing The Bronx are one based on the Bronx River, separating it into West and East Bronx, and another that strictly distinguishes the South Bronx from the rest of the borough.

How does the Bronx River divide the borough, and what historical significance does this division hold?

The Bronx River divides the borough into the earlier-settled, more urban, and hillier western sections and the newer, more suburban eastern sections. This division also aligns with the historical annexation dates, with areas west of the river annexed in 1874 and areas east annexed in 1895.

What is the general characteristic of the West Bronx compared to the East Bronx in terms of terrain and development?

The West Bronx is generally characterized by its hillier terrain and older apartment buildings, while the East Bronx is flatter and includes newer developments, along with significant parkland like Pelham Bay Park.

How is the South Bronx typically defined in terms of its geographical boundaries and characteristics?

The South Bronx is generally understood as the area south of Fordham Road and west of the Bronx River. It is characterized by high-density apartment buildings, low-income public housing, and historically, areas of high crime and poverty.

According to the 2020 census, what was the population of The Bronx, and how did it compare to the 2010 census?

The Bronx had a population of 1,472,654 in the 2020 census, which represented a 6.3% increase from the 1,385,108 residents counted in the 2010 census.

What is the most populous racial group in The Bronx, and how has its proportion changed over time?

The most populous racial group is Hispanic or Latino (of any race), which constituted 54.8% of the population in 2020. The White population, which was 93.1% in 1950, has significantly declined over the decades.

Which language is most commonly spoken at home in The Bronx besides English?

Spanish is the most common language spoken at home in The Bronx besides English, with 46.29% of residents aged five and older speaking it in 2010, reflecting the borough's diverse linguistic landscape.

How does The Bronx compare to other New York City boroughs in terms of poverty rate and median household income?

The Bronx has the highest poverty rate (27.9%) and the lowest median household income ($36,593) among the five boroughs of New York City, indicating significant socioeconomic challenges.

What Major League Baseball team is based in The Bronx, and what is its nickname?

The New York Yankees, nicknamed 'the Bronx Bombers,' are based in The Bronx and are one of Major League Baseball's most successful teams, known for their numerous championships.

What significant sporting venues have been located in The Bronx?

The Bronx has been home to the original Yankee Stadium (opened in 1923) and the current Yankee Stadium (opened in 2008), which also hosts the Major League Soccer team New York City FC.

What is the significance of Mile 20 of the New York City Marathon in relation to The Bronx?

Mile 20 of the New York City Marathon, known for its difficulty, passes through The Bronx, presenting a challenging segment for runners and highlighting the borough's role in this major city event.

What musical genre saw significant development in The Bronx during the 1970s?

Hip hop music saw significant development and evolution in The Bronx during the 1970s, with pioneers like DJ Kool Herc holding parties where foundational techniques of the genre were developed.

Who are some of the pioneering DJs associated with the development of hip hop in The Bronx?

DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Afrika Bambaataa are recognized as pioneering DJs who were instrumental in the development of hip hop music in The Bronx, shaping its early sound and culture.

What is the role of the Bronx Museum of the Arts?

The Bronx Museum of the Arts exhibits 20th-century and contemporary art, often focusing on themes relevant to The Bronx, and its permanent collection features works primarily by artists from Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

What is the significance of the Heinrich Heine Memorial, also known as the Lorelei Fountain, in The Bronx?

The Lorelei Fountain, a memorial to the poet Heinrich Heine, was placed in Joyce Kilmer Park near Yankee Stadium in 1899 after initial plans for its placement in Manhattan were thwarted, symbolizing a cultural contribution to The Bronx.

What is 'Bronx Week,' and what key events does it include?

'Bronx Week,' traditionally held in May, is an extended celebration that grew from a single day to a week of activities, including the Bronx Week Parade and inductions into the 'Bronx Walk of Fame,' honoring borough residents.

What role do BronxNet and News 12 The Bronx play in the borough's media landscape?

BronxNet, originating from Herbert H. Lehman College, provides government-access television programming and content produced by Bronx residents, while News 12 The Bronx offers programming specifically focused on the borough's news and events.

What are some of the prominent shopping areas in The Bronx?

Prominent shopping areas include Fordham Road, Bay Plaza Shopping Center in Co-op City, The Hub, the Riverdale/Kingsbridge shopping center, and Bruckner Boulevard, serving diverse retail needs across the borough.

What is 'The Hub,' and why is it considered significant?

The Hub, located in The Bronx's South Bronx area where four major avenues converge, is considered the retail heart of the South Bronx and is sometimes referred to as 'the Broadway of the Bronx' due to its high traffic and architectural density.

What was the function of the New York City Board of Estimate, and why was it declared unconstitutional?

The Board of Estimate was responsible for the city's budget and land use proposals. It was declared unconstitutional in 1989 because it violated the 'one man, one vote' principle by giving disproportionate representation to less populous boroughs compared to Brooklyn.

Who is the current Borough President of The Bronx, and when did they take office?

Vanessa Gibson is the current Borough President of The Bronx, taking office in 2022, following the tenure of Rubén Díaz Jr.

How has The Bronx voted in U.S. Presidential elections since becoming a separate county in 1914?

Since becoming a separate county in 1914, The Bronx has consistently supported the Democratic Party's presidential nominees, with only two exceptions in the early 1920s, reflecting a strong Democratic voting pattern.

Which U.S. Congressional districts currently represent The Bronx, and who are the representatives?

As of 2025, four Democrats represent The Bronx: Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), and George Latimer (NY-16), covering various neighborhoods within the borough.

What changes were made to high schools in The Bronx starting in the 1990s, and why?

Starting in the 1990s, New York City began closing large public high schools in The Bronx and replacing them with smaller ones, citing reasons such as poor graduation rates and safety concerns, aiming to improve educational outcomes.

Which City University of New York (CUNY) campuses are located in The Bronx?

The CUNY campuses in The Bronx are Hostos Community College, Bronx Community College (located on the former University Heights Campus of NYU), and Herbert H. Lehman College.

What is the significance of Fordham University's main campus in The Bronx?

Fordham University's main campus, known as Rose Hill, is the largest campus within the city and was founded in 1841 as the first Catholic institution of higher education in the northeast, maintaining its Jesuit heritage.

What is the SUNY Maritime College known for, and where is it located?

The State University of New York Maritime College, located at Fort Schuyler in Throggs Neck, is recognized as a national leader in maritime education and houses the Maritime Industry Museum.

How does the street grid of The Bronx differ between its western and eastern sections?

The West Bronx has a relatively irregular street grid due to its hilly terrain, while the East Bronx generally features a more regular street layout, reflecting different development patterns.

The Bronx Wiki: The Bronx: A Tapestry of Urban Evolution

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Introduction to The Bronx

Geographic Context

The Bronx, coextensive with Bronx County, is the northernmost of New York City's five boroughs. It is unique as the only borough situated primarily on the U.S. mainland. Bordered by Westchester County to the north, Manhattan across the Harlem River to the southwest, and Queens across the East River to the southeast, it occupies a strategic position within the metropolitan area.

Size and Population

With a land area of approximately 42 square miles (109 km²), The Bronx is the fourth-largest borough by area and population. As of the 2020 census, its population was recorded at 1,472,654 residents, making it the third most densely populated borough.

Natural Features

Despite its urban density, The Bronx contains significant parkland, including Pelham Bay Park, Van Cortlandt Park, and the New York Botanical Garden, which preserves the city's largest remaining tract of original forest.

Historical Trajectory

Early Settlement and Naming

European settlement began in 1639 with Jonas Bronck, a Swedish immigrant, after whom the area and river were named. Initially part of Westchester County, the territory was gradually annexed by New York City in two stages: the West Bronx in 1874 and the East Bronx in 1895. Bronx County was officially established in 1914.

Growth and Transformation

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw rapid growth fueled by railroad expansion and later, the subway system, transforming the Bronx from a rural area into a bustling urban center. This period attracted significant European immigration, particularly from Ireland, Germany, Italy, and Eastern Europe.

Mid-Century Decline and Resilience

From the mid-20th century, parts of the Bronx, especially the South Bronx, experienced significant urban decay, population loss, and socioeconomic challenges. However, starting in the late 1980s, the borough initiated a period of revitalization, marked by new construction, community rebuilding efforts, and a resurgence in economic activity.

Geographic Landscape

Topography and Waterways

The Bronx is characterized by the Bronx River, which divides the borough into its hillier western section and flatter eastern section. The borough's geography includes extensive parklands, waterfront areas along the Harlem River, East River, and Long Island Sound, and several smaller islands.

Parks and Green Spaces

Approximately one-quarter of The Bronx's area is dedicated to parkland. Notable areas include Pelham Bay Park (NYC's largest), Van Cortlandt Park, Bronx Park (home to the Botanical Garden and Zoo), and Woodlawn Cemetery. These spaces are vital for recreation and preserving natural habitats.

A selection of significant parks and open spaces within The Bronx:

Acquired	Name	Acres	Hectares
1863	Woodlawn Cemetery	400	162
1888	Pelham Bay Park	2,772	1,122
1888	Van Cortlandt Park	1,146	464
1888	Bronx Park	718	291
1899	Macombs Dam Park	28	12
1937	Ferry Point Park	414	168
1937	Soundview Park	196	79
1962	Wave Hill	21	8.5

Regional Divisions

East vs. West

The Bronx River serves as a primary geographic divider. The West Bronx, annexed earlier, is generally hillier and historically more urbanized. The East Bronx, annexed later, features flatter terrain and coastal areas.

Neighborhood Structure

The borough is commonly divided into Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, and Southeast regions, each with distinct characteristics. The South Bronx, particularly the Southwest Bronx, is often recognized as a distinct area due to its historical socioeconomic challenges and cultural significance.

Key Areas

Major neighborhoods include Riverdale in the Northwest, known for its affluent residential areas; the South Bronx, encompassing areas like Mott Haven and Hunts Point, historically central to the borough's challenges and cultural innovations like hip-hop; and the Northeast, featuring large parks and communities like Co-op City.

Demographic Profile

Ethnic Diversity

The Bronx is characterized by significant ethnic and racial diversity. It is the only borough with a Hispanic majority, with large Puerto Rican and Dominican populations. African Americans form the second-largest group, with substantial populations identifying with various African nationalities and those of mixed heritage.

Approximate racial and ethnic breakdown:

Group	Percentage (2021 Est.)
Hispanic or Latino	56.4%
Black or African American	33.8%
White (Non-Hispanic)	9.0%
Asian	4.7%
Two or More Races	3.8%

Language and Immigration

A significant portion of Bronx residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting the borough's status as a major hub for immigrants. Spanish is the most common non-English language spoken.

Socioeconomic Indicators

The Bronx faces significant socioeconomic challenges compared to other boroughs. It has the lowest median household income and the highest poverty rate within New York City, indicating ongoing needs for economic development and support.

Cultural Contributions

Birthplace of Hip Hop

The South Bronx is widely recognized as the birthplace of hip hop music and culture. Pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, and Grandmaster Flash utilized block parties in the 1970s to develop the foundational elements of this global phenomenon.

Sporting Heritage

The Bronx is home to Yankee Stadium, the iconic home of the New York Yankees Major League Baseball team. This venue has hosted legendary athletes and countless historic moments in sports history.

Institutions and Landmarks

Cultural institutions like the Bronx Museum of the Arts, the New York Botanical Garden, and the Bronx Zoo contribute significantly to the borough's identity. Landmarks such as the Grand Concourse represent its architectural heritage.

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References

Karl Ritter, "Swedish town celebrates link to the Bronx" Associated Press, August 21, 2014. which also refers to a claim by the Faeroe Islands.

Steven Hess, "From The Hague to the Bronx: Definite Articles in Place Names", Journal of the North Central Name Society, Fall 1987.

"New bank targets Latinos in South Bronx" December 11, 2007

Areas touching Bronx County, MapIt. Accessed August 1, 2016.

Cornell Law School Supreme Court Collection: Board of Estimate of City of New York v. Morris, accessed June 12, 2006

To see a comparison of borough votes for Mayor, see New York City mayoral elections#How the boroughs voted.

Monroe College history (from the College's web site) retrieved on July 27, 2008.

Bronx factsheet, TriâState Transportation Campaign. Accessed August 1, 2016.

The Threepenny Review, Volume 109, Spring 2007

A full list of references for this article are available at the The Bronx Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI model, drawing upon publicly available data, primarily from Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adhere to the provided source material, the information may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information presented here is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute advice regarding urban planning, sociology, history, or any other professional field. Always consult official documentation and qualified experts for specific guidance.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

The Bronx: A Tapestry of Urban Evolution

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Introduction to The Bronx ℹ️

📍 Geographic Context

📈 Size and Population

🌳 Natural Features

Historical Trajectory ⏳

📜 Early Settlement and Naming

🏙️ Growth and Transformation

📉 Mid-Century Decline and Resilience

Geographic Landscape 🏞️

🗺️ Topography and Waterways

🌳 Parks and Green Spaces

Regional Divisions 🧭

↔️ East vs. West

🏘️ Neighborhood Structure

🏛️ Key Areas

Demographic Profile 👥

🌐 Ethnic Diversity

🗣️ Language and Immigration

💰 Socioeconomic Indicators

Cultural Contributions 🎭

🎶 Birthplace of Hip Hop

⚾ Sporting Heritage

🏛️ Institutions and Landmarks

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction to The Bronx

Geographic Context

Size and Population

Natural Features

Historical Trajectory

Early Settlement and Naming

Growth and Transformation

Mid-Century Decline and Resilience

Geographic Landscape

Topography and Waterways

Parks and Green Spaces

Regional Divisions

East vs. West

Neighborhood Structure

Key Areas

Demographic Profile

Ethnic Diversity

Language and Immigration

Socioeconomic Indicators

Cultural Contributions

Birthplace of Hip Hop

Sporting Heritage

Institutions and Landmarks

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice