Los Angeles
History
The history of Los Angeles begins with its early settlement by the Tongva people, also known as the Gabrieleño, who inhabited the Los Angeles Basin and the San Fernando Valley. The city was founded on September 4, 1781, by a group of settlers called "Los Pobladores," who established the pueblo named El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles.
The initial settlement included a mix of mestizo and mulatto settlers, of African, Indigenous and European heritage. The small ranch town grew slowly, with a population of about 650 by 1820. Today, the original pueblo is memorialized in the historic district of Los Angeles Pueblo Plaza and Olvera Street.
Modern history includes significant events like the 1992 Los Angeles riots, triggered by the acquittal of LAPD officers involved in the Rodney King beating. The Northridge earthquake of 1994, with a magnitude of 6.7, caused substantial damage and loss of life. The century closed with the infamous Rampart scandal, a major example of police misconduct.
Geography and Climate
Los Angeles is situated on a hilly coastal plain, bordered on the south and west by the Pacific Ocean. It extends north to the Santa Monica Mountains and is bounded on the east by the San Gabriel Mountains. The city's topography includes numerous canyons and valleys, contributing to its diverse climatic conditions.
The geographical diversity, combined with its location by the ocean, results in microclimates throughout the region. This unique setting influences both the lifestyle and the environmental challenges faced by the city.
Culture
The culture of Los Angeles is a rich tapestry of arts and ethnic diversity. The metropolitan area hosts several renowned art institutions such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Hammer Museum.
Philanthropists like Dorothy Buffum Chandler played a pivotal role in establishing these cultural landmarks. Los Angeles is heavily influenced by Mexican American culture, reflecting its history as part of Mexico and the Spanish Empire.
Economy
The economy of Los Angeles is a major driver of the global economy, characterized by its diverse economic base. The city is a hub for entertainment, technology, aerospace, and trade. It hosts the Port of Los Angeles, one of the busiest in the world, facilitating international trade.
The entertainment industry, centered in Hollywood, makes Los Angeles a world leader in film, television, and music. Additionally, the city's thriving startup ecosystem is rapidly becoming a key player in the global technology scene.