In the Documentary, ” The White City”, I was intrigued with the size and depth of information and exhibits that the World Fair held. However, not only was I struck with amazement of the amount of innovative exhibits they portrayed, but also the innovation that went into creating the fair.
Countries, states, and companies all show-cased the most impressive innovations that they had. In an effort to show who was the most powerful, both militarily and industrial, leading up to the fair innovation was at the forefront of importance. States produced as much as whatever their agricultural prowess allowed them to, Krupp, a German company, created the largest artillery weapon of all time. It was capable of launching a 1 ton piece of artillery over 15 miles. The United States alternatively produced a similar artillery weapon that could launch artillery over 13 miles. The fair became, essentially, a contest on who could outdo each other and prove they were the best.
Building the White City was a feat in itself and required innovation in order for it to be completed in the short timespan . Among the innovations was the creation of spray paint, to more effectively paint the vast structures and buildings. Other innovations were the plaster substitute which looked like marble, but is actually a much cheaper alternative, and the method of pile driving the buildings on poles into the swamp for support.
The fair provided vast improvements for the 20th century, not only through its exhibits, but also its construction. This spur in innovation helped propel industry and adversely could have caused possible friction through arms races that possibly could have caused World War 1.