Pre-1769: The region that would become Los Angeles is inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Tongva (or Gabrielino) and Chumash tribes. They establish settlements, practice agriculture, and develop complex social structures.
1769: Spanish explorers led by Gaspar de Portolà and Father Junípero Serra begin their expedition in Alta California. They establish the Mission San Gabriel Arcángel, the fourth of 21 Spanish missions in California, near present-day Los Angeles.
1771-1781: The Spanish government establishes a series of ranchos (land grants) in the Los Angeles area, fostering agriculture and cattle ranching. Native American labor is utilized in these endeavors.
1781: El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles del Río de Porciúncula, or "The Town of Our Lady the Queen of the Angels of the Porciuncula River," is founded by a group of 44 settlers, including 22 soldiers and their families, on September 4th. This marks the official founding of Los Angeles.
Early 19th century: Los Angeles remains a small, primarily agricultural settlement under Spanish and later Mexican rule. The area's economy revolves around ranching, farming, and trade.
1848: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo concludes the Mexican-American War, and California is ceded to the United States. Los Angeles becomes part of the U.S. as part of the California Republic.
1850: California is admitted to the Union as the 31st state, and Los Angeles officially incorporates as a city on April 4th, 1850.
Late 19th century: Los Angeles experiences a period of rapid growth and urban development, fueled by the arrival of the transcontinental railroad in 1876, which connects the city to the eastern United States. The discovery of oil in the late 19th century further stimulates economic growth.
Early 20th century: The burgeoning film industry begins to take root in Los Angeles, with filmmakers drawn to the region's favorable climate and diverse landscapes. In 1910, D.W. Griffith establishes the first film studio in Hollywood, marking the beginning of Hollywood's rise as the entertainment capital of the world.
1920s: Los Angeles experiences a period of economic prosperity and cultural flourishing known as the Roaring Twenties. The city undergoes a construction boom, with the development of iconic landmarks such as the Los Angeles City Hall, Griffith Observatory, and Hollywood Sign.
1930s: Despite the economic challenges of the Great Depression, Los Angeles continues to grow, buoyed by the burgeoning aerospace and defense industries. The 1932 Summer Olympics are held in Los Angeles, bringing international attention to the city.
1940s-1950s: World War II brings an influx of defense contracts and military personnel to Los Angeles, further fueling economic growth and urban development. The post-war period sees a population boom as returning veterans and migrants from other parts of the country flock to the city in search of opportunities.
1960s-1970s: Los Angeles becomes a focal point of the Civil Rights Movement and countercultural movements of the 1960s and 1970s. The Watts Riots of 1965 and the Rodney King Riots of 1992 highlight racial tensions and social inequalities in the city.
1980s-1990s: Los Angeles experiences significant changes in its economy and demographics, with the decline of traditional industries such as manufacturing and the rise of new sectors such as technology, entertainment, and finance. Immigration from Latin America and Asia transforms the city's cultural landscape, making it one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States.
2000s: Los Angeles continues to evolve as a global city, with ongoing urban renewal projects, infrastructure development, and efforts to address social and environmental challenges. The city hosts the 2000 Democratic National Convention and the 2002 Winter Olympics, showcasing its status as a major cultural and sporting destination.
2010s: Los Angeles faces new challenges and opportunities in the 21st century, including economic inequality, homelessness, and environmental sustainability. The city invests in public transportation, renewable energy, and affordable housing initiatives to address these issues while also promoting economic growth and innovation.
2020s: Los Angeles grapples with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which leads to widespread disruptions in daily life and the economy. The city adopts measures to mitigate the spread of the virus, support affected communities, and facilitate recovery and resilience efforts. Despite these challenges, Los Angeles remains a dynamic and resilient metropolis, poised to continue its legacy as a global center of culture, commerce, and innovation.