Which historic area was known for its poverty prior to urban renewal efforts?

The Five Points neighborhood is historically significant for its representation of extreme poverty and urban hardship in New York City during the 19th century. Located in Lower Manhattan, this area became notorious for its overcrowded tenements, crime, and disease. It was a melting pot of immigrant populations, particularly the Irish, Italians, and Chinese, who faced severe economic challenges.

The urban renewal efforts that took place in later years transformed the landscape of Five Points, but those changes came after this area had already gained a grim reputation. The historical context of Five Points illustrates the issues of poverty and societal struggle, making it a key subject in discussions about urban poverty and revitalization in New York City's history.

While areas like Harlem, The Bowery, and SoHo faced their own challenges at different times, none are as singularly linked to the narrative of poverty in the 19th century as Five Points. The impacts of gentrification and economic shifts have redefined those neighborhoods, but Five Points remains emblematic of an era characterized by significant socioeconomic struggles.