Step Inside The Most Densely Populated Place on Earth... In the latest episode from Thoughty2, viewers are taken on a fascinating journey through Kowloon Walled City, once the most densely populated place on Earth. Up to 33,000 individuals lived in just six acres, a remarkable fact that captures the imagination and curiosity of anyone interested in urban history.
A Brief History of Kowloon
Kowloon Walled City was nestled in the heart of Hong Kong. While it was overshadowed in recent years by other urban environments, like Manila, which holds that title today, Kowloon was famous for its unique community structure until its demolition in 1994. The Walled City started as a military outpost during the Song Dynasty and evolved significantly through British colonization in the 19th century. The British ceded the rest of Hong Kong to China but didn't gain control over Kowloon Walled City, which remained a Chinese enclave.
The Crowded Urban Jungle
The sheer density of housing, inevitably leading to an improvised living situation, saw families building upwards to 14 stories high, crafting a complex maze out of necessity. The lack of law enforcement meant that many businesses thrived, from legitimate herbal shops to unlicensed dentists. Daily life within the city resembled an intricate and chaotic balance of community and crime. Amidst a backdrop of organized crime and poverty, Kowloon was anything but a typical slum. Instead, it became a self-sufficient microcosm, with everything from schools to opium dens, reflecting a community that adapted to the absence of regulation and governmental oversight. Known for its "as-you-like-it" business environment, Kowloon became infamous for its unregulated health practices as well—hundreds of makeshift clinics sprang up, offering medical services at a fraction of Hong Kong's hospital prices.
The Demise of the Walled City
By 1994, the growing concerns about living conditions and health risks led to a mutual decision by Britain and China to demolish Kowloon Walled City. Residents were provided some monetary compensation, and the area has since transformed into Kowloon Walled City Park, a peaceful public garden aimed at memorializing what was once an urban phenomenon.
Conclusion
This deep dive into Kowloon Walled City provides insight into an extraordinary patchwork of human resilience, urban design, and adaptability. The story opens a conversation on how densely packed urban environments can thrive despite challenges, and how they offer lessons for future city planners. For anyone interested in the intricacies of urban life and the fascinating tales of communities like Kowloon, this video is a must-watch. What are your thoughts on how living conditions shape community dynamics? Feel free to share your insights or any similar experiences you've come across! Let's continue the discussion—what other urban environments do you find intriguing?
