The Port
The city first grew from its maritime trade, building up the already established mission settlements along the east side of the city. When the city became a Mexican territory in 1821, trade regulations loosened, bringing even more goods and people to the area via commercial and military activity [23]. While the current downtown area became the center for banking and commerce, neighborhoods to the southeast grew to house blue-collar workers that were employed by the Port of San Francisco and the Hunters Point Naval Shipyard [23].
Much like today, early inhabitants of the region relied heavily on the maritime trade and commerce to fuel their economy. Sitting right off the Pacific Ocean, the Bay provides an invaluable natural resource—one that has historically facilitated global sea trade, as well as has attracted people to the city with its picturesque quality. Today, the primary port is actually located in Oakland, but still contributes to the overall economic and regional impact on San Francisco.
Much like today, early inhabitants of the region relied heavily on the maritime trade and commerce to fuel their economy. Sitting right off the Pacific Ocean, the Bay provides an invaluable natural resource—one that has historically facilitated global sea trade, as well as has attracted people to the city with its picturesque quality. Today, the primary port is actually located in Oakland, but still contributes to the overall economic and regional impact on San Francisco.
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