Mapping History’s Footprint in Nashville

How do the decisions of the past interact with the demographics of today?

I recently used interactive mapping to look at the relationship between the 1935 "Redlining" maps and decadal shifts in Nashville’s Black (AA) and Hispanic populations. When we overlay these layers, the spatial patterns suggest a deep connection between historical policy and modern urban geography.

Key Observations:

• Lasting Boundaries: The areas designated nearly a century ago often mirror the demographic concentrations we see in 2026.

• Political Determinants of Health (PDoH): These historical labels influenced the path of highways and the distribution of resources, which in turn impact modern health outcomes and economic opportunity.

Data allows us to see the "invisible" lines that still shape our city. By understanding these relationships, we can more effectively advocate for equitable community development.