Globalization and the Inner Periphery: A Mid-Bronx View

Abstract

The globalization literature on New York and other metropolises has focused mainly on control centers of the world system, typically located in central business districts, edge cities, transportation hubs, technology parks, and exclusive residential areas. The remainder of the metropolis is often depicted as just a source of labor power and consumers. Taking the case of CB-Six, a bureaucratically defined locality and low-income residential area in the Bronx, this article reviews the global dimensions of local history in the outer boroughs of New York City. Local and global issues are tightly interwoven through the changing numbers and origins of immigrants and through the impact of world wars, economic crises, and restructuring. The locality affects the world through its real and fictional roles in popular entertainment and through the missions of Fordham University, the Bronx Zoo, the Botanical Garden, and such bygone institutions as the Home for Incurables and the Starlight Amusement Park. Glory or notoriety could have resulted from silent movies, political assassination, soap opera, mass murder, or music and movie stars, but CB-Six never reached the Hall of Fame!

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