8.1 Historical Context

City planning has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations like those in Mesopotamia and Rome, where early cities were organized for defense, trade, and public gatherings. Over time, the approach to city planning has evolved significantly. In the past, the focus was primarily on the physical layout of cities, such as road systems and building placements. However, as cities grew larger and more complex, the field of city planning began to include social, economic, and environmental considerations.  

In the 20th century, city planning shifted from just functional design to more inclusive and sustainable approaches. One significant change was the introduction of equity planning, which aims to address the needs of all community members, especially those who are often marginalized. This approach seeks to create more just and fair cities by considering the social impacts of urban development and working so all residents benefit from city planning efforts. This evolution reflects the growing understanding that city planning is not just about buildings and roads but also about improving the quality of life for everyone in the community.