The Densest City on Earth

neo11 minutes read

Kowloon Walled City was a densely populated area with up to 50,000 residents, initially growing due to its proximity to the Canton harbor and unique legal status within British-controlled Hong Kong, eventually becoming a hub for illegal activities and unsanitary living conditions.

Insights

  • Kowloon Walled City, initially a military outpost, transformed into a densely populated urban area due to its unique legal status and proximity to the Canton harbor's trade activities.
  • Despite its cramped living conditions and prevalence of illegal activities, Kowloon Walled City housed a diverse population and incorporated unusual establishments like churches and senior homes, showcasing a complex and multifaceted community within its confined boundaries.

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Recent questions

  • What was Kowloon Walled City known for?

    Densely populated area with diverse establishments.

  • How did Kowloon Walled City originate?

    Originated as a Chinese military outpost.

  • What led to the destruction of Kowloon Walled City's walls?

    Japan's invasion during World War II.

  • What were the living conditions like in Kowloon Walled City?

    Unsanitary due to lack of waste management.

  • What illegal activities were prevalent in Kowloon Walled City?

    Drug trafficking, prostitution, and unregulated food production.

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Summary

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Kowloon Walled City: Densely Populated Urban Enclave

  • Kowloon Walled City, a densely populated area on just 6.5 acres, housed various establishments like homes, shops, and churches, attracting a diverse population.
  • In 1987, an estimated 33,000 people lived in Kowloon Walled City, with some estimates suggesting up to 50,000 residents.
  • The city's abrupt ending contrasted sharply with its cramped interior, as it was surrounded by spaced-out buildings and a park.
  • Originating as a Chinese military outpost, Kowloon Walled City expanded over time due to the nearby Canton harbor's prosperity from tea trade with British traders.
  • The British's illegal opium import to China led to the First Opium War, resulting in Britain's occupation of Hong Kong in 1841.
  • Despite Hong Kong becoming a British colony, Kowloon Walled City remained an exception due to its unique legal status.
  • The city's desolate barracks transformed into homes for squatters, with a Protestant church establishing a senior home within the historic yamen.
  • During World War II, Japan's invasion led to the destruction of Kowloon Walled City's walls for building materials.
  • The city's unregulated construction, lack of waste management, and limited water supply led to unsanitary living conditions.
  • Kowloon Walled City became a hub for illegal activities like drug trafficking, prostitution, and unregulated food production, controlled by criminal triads.

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