Capital Dilemma

"In 2011, as the economy of Washington DC was booming, its black population slipped below 50%. This is the “capital dilemma” explored in this fascinating book. Astute analysis, lively writing and deep concern for human survival characterize this superb set of essays. Elegantly conceived to cover the complexity of the urban landscape, the chapters dovetail neatly to stimulate our thinking and push our questions. This is a terrific book and students of history, American cities, race relations and economic development will all find it a great asset." - Mindy Thompson Fullilove, Columbia University

"Washington, D.C. is one of the world’s great cities; it is also one of the youngest. This combination makes it a fertile laboratory for researching how cities develop economically, socially, and politically during periods of rapid change. The scope of Capital Dilemma and the depth of the research it reports makes this book a foundational read for anyone interested in better understanding how today’s cities might better interrelate their past and current growth patterns with their growth potentials to achieve a stronger and more balanced and viable social and political framework for the future.

Derek Hyra and Sabiyha Prince have assembled a first class stable of researchers on cities with long ties to Washington, D.C. each of whom brings the combination of their deep understanding of the City and accumulated research-based study into focus in their tightly organized chapters. By pealing back the many interdependent layers, Capital Dilemma reports out the essentials of a city’s evolution from a political creation to a dynamic, livable, multi-faceted city. Students of urban development, social change and political reform at all levels will find Capital Dilemma an intellectually enriching and important addition to the literature." - Stephen S. Fuller, George Mason University