* During the Great Depression of the 1930s, shantytowns called Hoovervilles sprang up around major cities, named for President Herbert Hoover, who was blamed for the economic crisis. These makeshift communities were often populated by unemployed workers and their families who had lost their homes.
* In the wake of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, many people who had lost their homes lived in tent cities or trailer parks. These settlements often lacked basic amenities, such as running water and electricity.
Latin America
* In Brazil, shantytowns are known as favelas. They are most commonly found in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and other large cities. Many of the residents in favelas are migrants who have come from the countryside in search of work.
* In Mexico, shantytowns are called colonias. They are often located on the outskirts of large cities, and they typically lack basic services, such as sewage treatment and electricity.
Asia
* In India, shantytowns are called slums. Mumbai is home to one of the largest slums in the world, Dharavi. Some slums in India are highly organized and have elected leaders.
* In China, shantytowns are known as urban villages. They are typically located on the outskirts of major cities, and they are often home to migrant workers.
Africa
* In South Africa, shantytowns are known as townships. They are most commonly found in the Western Cape province, where they are home to many black people who were displaced during apartheid.
* In Kenya, shantytowns are called slums. They are most commonly found in Nairobi and other large cities and are home to many people who have come from the countryside in search of work.