Why did the Marais become a poor district in the late 19th century?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Paris; Eiffel Tower — Paris View of the Paris skyline from Montparnasse.

Toward the end of the 19th century, the Marais district transitioned into a slum due to significant demographic and structural changes. As many Jewish refugees from eastern Europe settled in the area, existing properties were subdivided into tiny apartments to accommodate the poverty-stricken newcomers.1

Additionally, the district’s infrastructure was altered to support industrial and commercial needs, with workshops being installed on the lower floors of buildings and in courtyard sheds. While some private developers demolished older, imposing palaces during this period, the area suffered from overcrowding and neglect, leading it to become one of the worst slums in Paris.1