why does chicago have two baseball teams

Chicago has two Major League Baseball teams—the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox—because of the city's size, historical development of baseball leagues, and regional cultural differences. The Chicago Cubs, originally founded in 1876 as part of the National League, represent the North Side of Chicago. The Chicago White Sox were established in 1901 as a founding member of the American League, playing on the South Side. This formation occurred during a "baseball war" period when the American League expanded to compete with the National League, placing a team in Chicago despite opposition from the Cubs. The two teams' locations correspond to the city's distinct north- south geographic and socioeconomic divisions, fostering separate fan bases and a strong rivalry. Chicago's large population and economic strength supported having two teams, making the rivalry and presence of both teams a key part of the city's rich baseball culture and identity. The Cubs' home is Wrigley Field on the North Side, while the White Sox play at Guaranteed Rate Field on the South Side. This arrangement has continued since 1901, making Chicago unique in maintaining the same two MLB teams for over a century.