Community development has a long history dating back to ancient civilizations where communities worked together to build infrastructure and improve living conditions. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, community development efforts were often led by religious organizations and focused on providing social services to marginalized populations.
In the mid-20th century, community development became more formalized with the establishment of government programs and non-profit organizations dedicated to improving communities through economic development, affordable housing, and social services. The 1960s and 1970s saw a shift towards community empowerment and grassroots organizing, with a focus on giving communities the tools and resources to address their own needs.
In recent years, community development has become more interdisciplinary, incorporating elements of urban planning, public health, and environmental sustainability. There is also a growing emphasis on community engagement and participatory decision-making, with an emphasis on building partnerships between residents, government agencies, and private sector organizations.