And by a constitutional amendment of 1915, universal suffrage is introduced for everyone, irrespective of income. After the Social Democrats gain a majority in the municipal council, the municipality takes over more and more social tasks. Modern, subsidized council housing is built in outlying areas, together with parks and sporting amenities. Public health is enhanced by improved light and air. In the 1920s and 1930s entertainments and amusements flourish, but at the same time the economic crisis of the 1930s puts a damper on the city.
Unemployment rises to alarming heights.
People were linen up in front of the employement offices in order to earn enough to their daily bread. As the photo from Mejlgade 8 shows the situation often seemed hopeless. The city is occupied by Nazi Germany During World War II Denmark, and hence Copenhagen, is occupied by troops from Nazi Germany. Compared to other European cities, Copenhagen gets through World War II virtually unscathed. Just a few years after World War II, slum clearance and urban development begin as part of the fight against the widespread housing shortage.