Chicago faced criticism and skepticism from the East, with its growth and ambition seen with disdain. The city aspired to prove its worth through success, striving to change the perception that it was merely a place of greed and agricultural activity. A failure in their pursuits would lead to significant embarrassment, especially given the bold claims made by its leaders about Chicago's potential.

This competitive spirit and bravado are what led to the nickname "Windy City," coined by New York editor Charles Anderson Dana. The emphasis on boasting and rhetoric overshadowed the actual weather conditions, highlighting Chicago’s determination to stand tall against its critics and demonstrate that it was a city of substance and influence.