A historical analysis of housing in the District of Columbia from 1965 to 2000

This dissertation examines the extent to which historical materialism as a theoretical framework and methodology explains the nature of housing in the District of Columbia from 1965 to 2000. Using the historical materialist methodological approach, this research analyzes the relationships between housing and the nature of the economy during two policy periods from 1965 to 2000. The nature of housing in the District of Columbia is measured using three categories of analysis: (1) housing policy, (2) demographic shifts in income and race, and (3) housing affordability. Findings from the three categories are analyzed within the context of two distinct policy periods: the period of expansion and welfare reform from 1965 to 1979 and the period of globalization and neoliberal policies from 1980 to 2000. Housing policies are categorized as being either "reformist" or "neoliberal". Reform policies advocate state action on behalf of marginalized people, expand the availability of housing, are inclusive through expanding affordability, or based on entitlements. Neoliberal policies are those that either reduce government spending/subsidies, promote market forces or private reinvestment or encourage the deregulation of public services. Demographic shifts are analyzed through an evaluation of income and race shifts and are related to shifts in the economy. Housing affordability is evaluated through an analysis of gross rents, home values, and homeownership rates in the District of Columbia during the period under investigation. Recommendations for affordable housing are offered within the conclusion of the research.