"The Fire" refers to a significant event that occurred in Chicago in 1871, known as the Great Chicago Fire. This devastating blaze started on the evening of October 8 and lasted until October 10, destroying a large portion of the city. It is estimated that the fire killed around 300 people and left over 100,000 residents homeless. The cause of the fire remains uncertain, but it is widely believed to have started in a barn owned by the O'Leary family. The flames spread rapidly due to strong winds and the wooden structures of the city. The aftermath led to major changes in building codes and urban planning in Chicago.