Cairo, Illinois, located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, has a rich and complex history. Founded in 1818, Cairo was envisioned as a thriving river port due to its strategic location. The city played a crucial role during the Civil War, serving as a key supply and troop transport hub for the Union Army, with General Ulysses S. Grant establishing a command post there. However, despite its early promise, Cairo's prosperity declined in the 20th century, plagued by economic hardships, racial tensions, and population decline. By the late 1900s, the once-bustling city had become a symbol of urban decay, but its historical significance as a pivotal site in American history remains.