Although Indiana Harbor has never been a separate town, it has often been referred to as one since its establishment in 1901.[2] Historically, Indiana Harbor was more working-class than East Chicago proper, with a population dominated by workers at Inland Steel and related plants.[3] Rivalries between Indiana Harbor and the rest of East Chicago are common.[3]
Mexican-American settlement in Indiana Harbor began during the steel strike of 1919. By 1928, Indiana Harbor was home to one of the largest Mexican-American communities in the Midwest.[4] The neighborhood has retained a substantial Mexican population, and hosts an annual Mexican Independence Day parade.[5]