Los Angeles

City in California, United States

File:Wordmark of Los Angeles, California.svg

Los Angeles

Los Angeles (

Spanish

Los Ángeles), 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, after New York City.

Geography

Los Angeles with Mount Baldy

Los Angeles is located in a large coastal basin bounded by the Pacific Ocean on one side and by mountains as high as 10,000 feet (3,000 m) on the other. The city itself is situated on a broad basin in Southern California and is surrounded by vast mountain ranges, valleys, forests, beautiful beaches along the Pacific Ocean, and nearby desert.

History

Olvera Street

The area that is now Los Angeles was originally inhabited by the Tongva and Chumash peoples. The city was officially founded on September 4, 1781, by Spanish governor Felipe de Neve. It became a part of Mexico in 1821 following the Mexican War of Independence. In 1848, at the end of the Mexican–American War, Los Angeles and the rest of California were purchased as part of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, becoming part of the United States.

Economy

Los Angeles has a diverse economy, with strengths in entertainment, aerospace, technology, petroleum, fashion, apparel, and tourism. The Hollywood district of Los Angeles is known as the "Entertainment Capital of the World" and is the leader in the creation of television productions, video games, and recorded music.

Culture

Hollywood Sign

Los Angeles is often billed as the "Creative Capital of the World" because one in every six of its residents works in a creative industry. The city's cultural attractions are second to none, with more than 100 museums, many of them world-class, and a thriving music and theater scene.

Landmarks

Griffith Observatory

Los Angeles is home to many famous landmarks. The Hollywood Sign is an iconic symbol of the city. The Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of the city and the stars. Los Angeles City Hall is a historic building and a symbol of the city's government.

Parks and Recreation

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Echo Park Lake

Los Angeles offers a wide variety of parks and recreational activities. Echo Park Lake is a popular spot for paddle boating and picnicking. The city is also home to Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America.

Transportation

Los Angeles is known for its extensive freeway system. The city is served by Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), one of the busiest airports in the world. Public transportation is provided by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates an extensive network of buses and rail lines.

Environment

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El Aliso tree

Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The city has made efforts to improve air quality and reduce pollution, although it still faces challenges due to its size and population.

Related pages

• California
• Hollywood
• Los Angeles County
• Los Angeles International Airport