The Beginning of Times Square
Times Square originated in the 1880s, as it was a popular location for horse exchanges. Soon after, once electricity was invented, signs and street lights lit up this area, which made it more inviting and safer for visitors. In 1904, its name was officially changed from Long Acre Square to Times Square, because the Times Tower was built there. Bars, restaurants, and theaters drew in many visitors to Times Square, which helped the area to flourish. By the 1920’s all public transportation had a stop at West 42nd street, which also aided to the popularity of the area.
The downfall
The Great Depression greatly hindered the growth of Times Square. In order to survive the theaters started showing sexually explicit content. Many lower forms of entertainment soon followed into the area. Some examples are burlesque shows, cheap restaurants, peep shows, dance halls, and penny arcades. This also brought more male and female prostitutes to the area. Also, an increase in drug traffic drove down the amount of visitors to the area. Soon after crack dealers, junkies, and lots of homeless individuals took over the streets.
Times Square Today
In the coming years, Times Square began to change. What once was originally adult shows and stores then turned to child-aimed stores and popular musicals. Today, Times Square is a hub for shopping and entertainment in the heart of New York City. It is also home to Broadway, which helps to bring revenue into this part of the city.
