The North American Manufacturing Core

According to textbook, Chicago is located in the North American manufacturing core (Figure 5.1, page 90). The city has grown to become a major financial, transportation and distribution center. Manufacturing, printing, and publishing, and food processing also play major roles in the city’s economy. It is the largest city on the Great Lakes.

Chicago is arguably the dominant city of the interior manufacturing core. Due to its importance and large population it was known as the "Second City" for many years. Chicago is close in proximity to the Great Lakes which makes it a prime location for people and the import and export of goods. Its location also provided for steel and metal product manufacturing which is characteristic of the Great Lakes port pattern. The textbook considers Chicago's focus on inland water transportation as one of its strengths. 

In 2005, the percentage of employment in manufacturing is 110 percent relative to the United States average of 100 percent (Table 5.2, Page 109). 

Reference: Regional Landscapes of the United States and Canada 

Authors: Stephen S. Birdsall, Eugene J. Palka, Jon C. Malinowski, and Margo L. Price

Chicago Board of Trade Building