What was the significance of the 1892 world's columbian exposition?

The World's Colombian Exposition was a fair that was held in Chicago in 1893. Its purpose was to celebrate the 400th anniversary of when Christopher Columbus made arrival in the new world. Over 12 million people traveled to attend this massive fair that was held in Chicago's fairgrounds an the gleaming white building. The progress of American civilization was showcased in the new technology that was on display as well as new an boisterous visions of architects who were pushing for new developments.