This paper provides a synthesis of the state of knowledge on the economics of skyscrapers. First, we document how vertical urban growth has gained pace over the course of the 20th century. Second, we lay out a simple theoretical model of optimal building heights in a competitive market to...

Part I: Pre-contact to the Treaty of Vienna -- 1. Beverstad -- 2. An Island in the Center of its Hinterland -- 3. Port and Entrepot -- Part II: The Displaced Nineteenth Century -- 4. Catastrophic Agglomeration -- 5. A Port in Time -- 6. Manufacturing Employment at Mid-Century -- 7. Huddled...