Today in History is a daily newsletter from Britannica. (more) Today in History—May 27: The Opening of the Chrysler Building Written by Michele Metych Michele Metych is the lead editor for Today in History at Encyclopædia Britannica. Michele Metych Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated May 22, 2026 •History On this day in 1930, history’s fiercest race for the sky crowned a champion with the opening of the 77-story Chrysler Building in New York City. At 1,046 feet, it became the world’s tallest building, overtaking the Eiffel Tower after a nerve-racking final stretch for car company tycoon Walter P. Chrysler, the building’s owner, who was determined to build higher than anyone else ever had. Today in History is a daily newsletter from Britannica. Encyclopædia...

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