Model Cities originated in response to several concerns of the mid-1960s. Widespread urban violence, disillusionment with existing urban renewal programs, and bureaucratic difficulties in the first years of the War on Poverty led to calls for reform of federal programs.
Model Cities arose due to several concerns from the mid-1960s. Severe urban unrest, dissatisfaction with traditional urban renewal efforts, and bureaucratic hurdles in the initial stages of the War on Poverty resulted in demands for changes to federal initiatives.