Brownsville's history traces back to 1865 when Charles S. Brown launched a small community. Growth accelerated after 1887 with developments attracting workers from lower Manhattan. By 1910, the area had a strong Jewish presence, earning the 'Jerusalem of America' moniker. However, the arrival of African Americans faced discrimination, leading to urban decay in subsequent decades. Despair turned to hope in the 1970s when community efforts to address housing and racial tensions marked the beginning of Brownsville's revitalization, resulting in the construction and renovation of over a thousand housing units.
Brownsville started as Brown's Village in 1865; rapid growth followed with the arrival of the railway and an increase in immigrant families, notably Jews.
The community witnessed decay over two decades due to overcrowding and social issues, but began revitalizing in the 1970s, focusing on housing and racial harmony.
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