ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Alton, Illinois

Alton, Illinois is a city where many people live. It is located in the United States, in the state of Illinois.

Long ago, many Native American tribes lived and hunted in the area. Later on, people from Europe came and settled in Alton. They built houses and buildings, and began to farm the land.

Alton is a very historic place. This means that many important events happened there a long time ago. For example, in the 1800s, Alton was an important stop on the Underground Railroad. This was a secret system that helped enslaved people escape from the South to the North where they could be free. Alton’s role in the Underground Railroad means that it helped many people gain their freedom.

Another important event in Alton’s history was the famous debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. These two men were running for an important job in the government, and they came to Alton to talk about their ideas. Many people came to watch and listen, and it was a very important moment in American history.

Today, Alton is still an important place. It has many businesses, schools, and parks where people can learn, work, and have fun. It is also a place where people can learn about history, and visit important landmarks to see where these important events happened.