Los Angeles
Los Angeles, officially the City of Los Angeles and often known by its initials L.A., is the largest city in California and the second most populous city in the United States. Here are some detailed insights into the city:
History
- Foundation: Los Angeles was founded on September 4, 1781, by Spanish governor Felipe de Neve as El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles (The Town of the Queen of the Angels).
- Mexican Era: After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, Los Angeles became part of Alta California until the Mexican-American War.
- American Era: In 1848, after the war, California and Los Angeles came under U.S. control. The city was incorporated in 1850, shortly after California became a state.
- Growth: The completion of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in 1885 marked the beginning of the city's rapid expansion, turning it into a transportation hub.
Geography
Los Angeles spans over 500 square miles (1,300 km²) and is known for its diverse geography including:
Demographics
Los Angeles is known for its cultural diversity:
- Population: As of the latest census, Los Angeles has a population of approximately 4 million people.
- Ethnicity: The city is a melting pot with significant populations of Hispanic and Latino, Asian, African American, and White residents.
Economy
Los Angeles has a robust economy driven by:
Culture
The cultural scene in Los Angeles is vibrant:
- Museums: Includes institutions like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and The Getty.
- Music: The city has a rich music history with genres like jazz, rock, hip-hop, and Latin music flourishing here.
- Food: L.A. is famous for its diverse food scene, from street tacos to high-end dining.
Transportation
External Links
Related Topics