The Effects of Coal Smoke on Economic Disparity in Cities

In 1817, wind direction had no effect on the wealth distribution of cities. In 1881, with the increase in coal use, there was a higher concentration of low skilled workers on the east side of the city. This relationship suggests a causal link rather than just a correlation. Even when distance is held constant, areas closer to coal chimneys had a slightly higher percentage of low skilled workers. While it is uncertain if the coal smoke directly caused lower skills, there is evidence of intergenerational effects and long-lasting pollution affecting cognitive abilities.