THE CHICAGO CONSULAR CORPS 

One hundred and forty-seven years ago, the first consulate was opened in Chicago by the Government of Belgium.  Chicago today is at the forefront of American industry and world trade and in 1998 the city is host to 63 countries whose Heads of Post represent their governments here and throughout a large area of the Midwest.  

Consular institutions date back to ancient times. The early consul was an office developed out of the necessities of international trade. By generating a sense of security and confidence conducive to trade, travel, and residence in foreign lands, the role of consul has grown in importance until today we find consuls in almost all major cities of the world.  

In 1954, the Library of International Relations inaugurated the Consular Ball as a way of recognizing the 
importance of the Consular Corps of Chicago. Their friendship and support of the LIR's mission of promoting mutual understanding, goodwill, and cooperation among the peoples and governments of the world remains even stronger today.