Chicago’s premiere live, nightly news program turns 30 today. We look back at the inaugural show and 30 years of keeping you connected with the city and its community.  

On Chicago Tonight’s 29th birthday, travel back to April 24, 1984 to watch our very first episode.

We take a look at the political career and legacy of Chicago's first African-American mayor, Harold Washington.

Harold Washington in a January 29, 1985 interview with John Callaway on Chicago Tonight.

Bruce DuMont hosts a conversation about reform in Chicago with Mayor Harold Washington and Crain’s Chicago Business publisher Joe Cappo on a Chicago Tonight episode from August 29, 1984.

Harold Washington and John Callaway in the very first episode of Chicago Tonight on April 24, 1984.

Mayor Harold Washington answers audience questions in Chicago Feedback, hosted by John Callaway on January 17, 1984.

Mayor Harold Washington discusses the city budget with John Callaway on Nov. 16, 1983 in an episode of Callaway Magazine.

John Callaway moderates Round 3 of the 1983 mayoral debate between Harold Washington, Jane Byrne and Richard M. Daley.  

Harold Washington and John Callaway in a March 14, 1977 episode of John Callaway Interviews.

Harold Washington beats Mayor Jane Byrne and Richard M. Daley in the Democratic primary for mayor.

Harold Washington becomes Chicago’s first African-American mayor by beating Republican Bernard Epton in the general election.

Mayor Harold Washington dies, leaving a lasting legacy and creating at least temporary chaos as various factions line up to back possible replacements.