Los Angeles Portrait of a City

La La Land is a captivating photographic chronicle that illuminates the evolution of Los Angeles. From the earliest captured image of the city to its breathtaking contemporary landscapes, this book delves into the rich tapestry of Los Angeles's cultural, political, industrial, and social history. It meticulously charts the city's transformation, beginning with the real estate surge of the 1880s, navigating through Hollywood's golden beginnings, the sprawling urban expansion of the late 20th century, and leading up to the present day. With an impressive collection of over 500 stunning images, the book illustrates Los Angeles's journey from an arid desert to a bustling urban expanse dotted with palms. It captures world-defining events such as the hosting of two Olympic Games, the tragic assassination of Bobby Kennedy, and the tumultuous Rodney King riots, giving readers a glimpse into a city brimming with complexity and diversity. Highlights include insights into Hollywood, the world's entertainment hub, and its dazzling array of stars, alongside profiles of influential residents, architects, artists, and musicians. The book also explores the city's contributions to pop cultural movements, including music, surfing, health food trends, gang culture, and hot rod phenomena, along with its infamous criminal history. By incorporating rare images from renowned photographers like Julius Shulman, Garry Winogrand, and William Claxton, sourced from esteemed historical archives, museums, private collections, and academic institutions, this work presents Los Angeles in all its splendor and stark realities. Complemented by insightful essays from celebrated California historian Kevin Starr and Los Angeles literary authority David L. Ulin, this book offers a comprehensive and vivid portrayal of the City of Angels.