Chicago is famed for its patchwork of neighborhoods, each with a unique history. But over time, the rich history of some of the city’s communities has become clouded by tragedy. 

Urban historian and south sider Shermann “Dilla” Thomas says that tragic perception can also cloud a community’s future.

Here, Thomas gives us the last word on how understanding our city’s past can lead to a better tomorrow.

Thomas will get his history expertise put to the test on WTTW — he’s a contestant on the “Great Chicago Quiz Show with Geoffrey Baer” this Friday, April 16.