Abstract In this article, the writer provides an essay regarding the history of LosAngeles and the Mexican influence. The writer discusses the history of the Mexican heritage. The establishment of LosAngeles is examined in this paper. The writer also looks at the "Zoot Suit" riots of World War II. Further, the writer discusses the ethnic diversity of LosAngeles.
From the Paper "Over the last several hundred years, Los Angeles has been a community filled with people from different nations and walks of life including the indigenous Native American population, the Spanish and Mexican populations as well as others. It has been the heritage of the Mexican and Spanish cultures however that has continued to make its presence and influence known up through to the ... "
Abstract This paper explains that a culture is more than just a race, a language or a country but rather, through crashes and mergers, it creates new ways of seeing the world. The author points out that in LosAngeles, which is a cosmopolitan, world-class city with no majority race, the multicultural issues are not social acceptance problems that are common in suburban and rural districts, but instead psychological challenges, particularly the all-important and pervasive issue of identity. The paper stresses that culture crash is best grappled with by those individuals directly going through the continuous turmoil that it invariably creates and who are in the best position to portray their own responses to the continuing evolution of their culture.
From the Paper "On the other hand, Karen Tei Yamashita's novel, "Tropic of Orange", deals less with personal issues of culture crash and merger than with the broader, even global, effects of mass culture merger and its attendant economic manifestations in policies such as NAFTA (which, as has been argued by many, has a tendency to erase cultural distinctions in favor of mass uniformity). Yamashita's novel does touch upon the matter of self-identity, in so far one of its central characters (Emi) is an Asian-American; but there is so much turmoil and turbulence going on around the characters that one can barely stop for the luxury of self-analysis."
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that Anna Deveare Smith's 'Twilight: LosAngeles, 1992' is a very original work, standing at the limit between two literary genres, the drama and the documentary. The writer points out that in order to write the play, Smith interviewed approximately one hundred and fifty people who had taken part in any way in the riots that took place soon after the verdict against Rodney King, the black man who had been dreadfully beaten by white policemen. The book is thus made up of monologues coming from people from different races and cultures, different social strata and so on, who tell their opinion or voice their feelings and experiences related to racism and discrimination in general. In the last part of the book, one hears the voice of Twilight Bay, one of those who organized the gang truce and the character who gives the name of the book. The writer concludes that Twilight is a wise political activist of the street, who has a clearer view of racial differences than most of the people around them, and who, although in the middle of a conflict where it would be hard to be impartial, can see that people have to think differently so as to be true to their own humanity.
From the Paper "Twilight is a black young man who tries to maintain the peace in his neighborhood by staying awake all night to make sure his gang will not be attacked by a rival one. As such, Twilight is a political activist of the street, trying to mediate the conflict between the different races. His vision of the world he lives in is very complex and the author specifically uses it as a conclusion to her documentary. Most of the monologues express an ambivalent view towards racism and social conflict. Some of the people feel hatred, others simply think that the differences between cultures are far too great to be overcome, but at the same time, humanity tells them their own feelings are wrong. Twilight seems to be one step ahead of the others. He represents the hope of an eventual definitive reconciliation between the races. The way he interprets his own name reveals much of his personality and his view. Thus, he feels he is standing between two worlds: the fact that he tries to maintain the peace among the gangs makes him think that he is, like he is being told by the others, somewhere in the limbo, that is, between the dark present and the possibility of a brighter future, when there will finally be peace among the people ... "
Abstract This paper analyzes Mike Davis' opinion of LosAngeles as expressed in his book, "City of Quartz", and notes that Davis feels that the prosperous LA is about to collapse. More specifically, this paper compares and contrast Davis' view of LosAngeles to public perception of the city today, focusing on today's L.A., as defined by pop-culture media, the public's fascination with "young Hollywood", and the influence this generation has on society.
Outline:
Introduction
LosAngeles: The Land of Opportunity
Redefinition of Class Relationships
The Minority
Gangs
The "Chosen People"
Authority
LosAngeles's Primary Export
Dispersion of Power
LosAngeles as a Global City
Past, Present, & Future
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper "Aside from Hollywood, LA boasts of its nighttime hot spots such as Downtown LA and the famous Sunset Strip. The strip is popular for its clubs, restaurants, boutiques, and Hollywood night spots where celebrities, as well as celebrity wannabes and people-watchers, hang-out. LA is indeed the land of opportunity for those who dream of being the next big movie star, film maker, or pop icon. We live in the MTV generation where young people look up to the people they see on TV. The youth aspire to have a part of the showbiz life style. The sudden proliferation of reality TV shows provides these aspirants a few hours of fame. It has been noted that hundreds of adolescent runaway from home just to follow their dreams of becoming a Hollywood star but only a few of them would succeed due to the tight competition in the industry."
Abstract The paper discusses the writer's reading of "Fortress LosAngeles", an excerpt from Mike Davis' book, "City of Quartz". The paper explains the main points that Davis makes and the issues he brings up about the urbanization of LosAngeles. The paper also discusses some of the terms Davis uses when describing the parks and playgrounds in LosAngeles and the homeless population. In the conclusion of the paper, the writer offers her opinion of the book and notes that Davis places strong blame on the city and even more so on the LAPD for the urbanization of LosAngeles.
From the Paper "General Harrison Gray Otis is implicated as the first spatial militarist in Los Angeles. In the 1890's his Times building was the first building rebuilt as somewhat of a fortress in Los Angeles, fully outfitted with turrets and a bronze eagle. As an emphasis of his aggression General Otis added a functional cannon on the hood of his Packard. In 1910 the building was destroyed by an explosion, blamed on union subversives. To date, the martial spirit of Otis has permeated throughout the downtown area. Parks and playgrounds have been leveled to make way for skyscrapers. Towering buildings are connected by suspended walkways so that white-collared society doesn't have to concern itself with the blue-collared world in which it has invaded. Most days those people don't breathe the outside air until they exit their hermetically sealed offices to go to their company cars. "The goals of this strategy may be summarized as a double repression: to obliterate all connection with Downtown's past and to prevent any dynamic association with the non-Anglo urbanism of it's future".
Abstract In this paper, the writer discusses Mike Davis' "City of Quartz" that describes the history, economy and the relationships in LosAngeles society. The writer relates Davis' perception of racism, discrimination against blacks and minorities, gangs, the protection of the rich and the brutal police oppression of minorities and the poor. The paper then contrasts this view to public perception of the city today as one defined by pop-culture media, the public's fascination with "young Hollywood", and the opportunities this city offers.
Outline:
Introduction
LosAngeles: The Land of Opportunity
Redefinition of Class Relationships
LosAngeles's Primary Export
Dispersion of Power
LosAngeles as a Global City
Past, Present, & Future
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper "Development in Los Angeles started in the late 1880s. A railroad-sponsored promotion caused people from different places came to Los Angeles County in hopes of finding good fortune. After this sudden swarming of people, the county collapsed. The rich and prominent people, lead by Los Angeles times owner Harrison Gray Otis, needed to find a way to get the region back on its feet. They promoted Los Angeles to be the "land of opportunity." Again, the county was alive. People from the Midwest and East Coast migrated to LA and put their savings on buying real estates. (Keasbey) Investment on LA estates was the main attraction of the region before."
Abstract This paper focuses on the history of Mexican immigrants in LosAngeles and addresses how immigration policies both past and present have impacted Mexican immigrants and the poverty that encompasses them. By looking at the history of attempts made to rectify the problems of immigration and focusing on the failures of immigration policies, the paper examines the responsibilities of both the state and federal governments on policy implementation. The paper also looks at the unique urban community of LosAngeles and the Mexican immigrant population that lives there. The paper focuses on the issues that the city faces at the local level, which includes both social and economic ramifications, and looks at the role of social work in working with immigrants. In regards to social welfare needs of immigrants, the paper demonstrates the role social workers play in addressing the social welfare needs of the Mexican immigrant population in LosAngeles.
From the Paper "An integrated program of workplace enforcement and border control would provide a steady decline in the illegal immigrant populations. As a result of this policy attempt to reduce illegal immigration, state and local services for education, health, and social welfare services began to widely serve newly arrived immigrants and their unauthorized families in the early 1990?s. Suits were filed against the Federal Government and many people were upset about the fears that immigrants were draining the resources. California's Prop. 187 addressed earlier, paved the way for the implementation of the Welfare Reform Act, enacted by President Clinton in 1996. The Welfare reform bill limited immigrant's eligibility for Government assistance programs."
Abstract This paper details the lack of political action to proactively combat poverty in LosAngeles County. While many programs exist to fight against gang formations and crimes, these policies are reactive and do not help to solve the actual problem, only contain them. This paper describes why LosAngeles County epitomizes the situation of gross neglect by the government for poor families struggling to break out of the cycle of poverty. Lacking governmental aid or media attention, it is extremely hard for these individuals to gain the same level of equality that everyone else in America takes for granted. The problem of poverty has been a major effecting force in why LosAngeles County continues to experience more crime, violence and racial tension every year. The writer of this paper also looks at the LA county school system, which is the number one cause for continued poverty, as students are told both verbally and through the tacit actions of their teachers that they are worthless and destined for poverty. This paper discusses the dire need for aid and assistance in breaking the cycle of crime and poverty in L.A.
From the Paper "The problem of poverty has been a major effecting force in why Los Angeles County continues to experience more crime, violence, and racial tension every single year. Poverty leads to desperation, and when people are desperate they are willing to do anything and everything to survive. The only way to better the overall state of Los Angeles is to break the cycle of oppression that poverty stricken families face. Although it may be hard to cure all of the ills of the poor in our current generation, many steps can be taken to help future ones. In order to examine the problem at its roots, a thorough analysis of the causes behind poverty in Los Angeles County must be conducted. One of the causes of poverty in this area is the racial segregation of communities."
Abstract This paper is a critical book review and proposal on the book "LosAngeles: The Architecture of Four Ecologies" by Reyner Banham, noting that the author points out how LosAngeles architecture involves a mixture of styles and a variety of responses to the environment of the city. In addition, Banham expands the concept of architecture by noting how much of LosAngeles is represented by specialized architecture like the freeway intersections that so represent the culture of the city.
From the Paper "California is often set forth as a cultural leader and as the state in which new ideas, fads, styles, and trends begin and then move out across the country. Los Angeles is a media leader in the United States and the world and so is one of the prime sources for these new concepts. A study of the architecture of Los Angeles can thus be seen as a look at the beginning point for many architectural movements and features and may suggest something about how the rest of the country relates to architecture. In this book by Reyner Banham, the author..."
Abstract In this article the writer examines the architecture of the city of LosAngeles. In order to make this analysis, the writer discusses Reyner Banham's book 'LosAngeles: The Architecture of Four Ecologies'. The writer looks at how Banham studies different environments, topography and collections of architecture within LosAngeles.
From the Paper "In his book 'Los Angeles: The Architecture of Four Ecologies', Reyner Banham contributes to the literature on architecture by analyzing specifically the architecture of Los Angeles, a city known for its variety and sprawling dimensions. The author combines insights into the two by showing how the city can be divided into different sections on the basis of differing ecologies, by which he means different environments, different topography, and different clusters of architecture linked to each of the regions he considers. He offers four ecologies in his analysis, showing at the same time aspects of the history of the city and of the state of California, a history that helped shape these differing ecologies."
Abstract The paper gives a grade to a number of novels, books of short stories and plays about LosAngeles, showing how each is seen in literary terms. The paper then considers how each one comments on LosAngeles and relates as well to a view of the nation as a whole. The paper concludes that most are set in LosAngeles, show much about the social order of that city and show interests that affect the rest of the country as well.
From the Paper "The literary criteria used for this evaluation include a clear theme to which all the elements of the work relate, characterizations that are both interesting and meaningful in context, a degree of originality, and overall coherence. In this case, the way the work exposes aspects of Los Angeles life and relates to American life is also given importance. Books of short stories are judged on overall effect rather than by giving a grade to each story. Steve Abee, The Bus B: In this novel, the author takes his main character on a bus trip across Los Angeles, tying together the different parts of the city and the different populations and showing how they fit into the city as a whole. The panorama of the city is like that of the country as a whole, with the different ethnic neighborhoods being reminiscent of similar enclaves in other cities."
A discussion on the article "Cities and the Wealth of Nations" by Jane Jacobs with the use of the LosAngeles City region as an example of her theories.
Abstract This paper reviews Jane Jacobs' article, "Cities and the Wealth of Nations" and discusses her theories of import-replacement - that cities became self reliant and powerful through the forces of social construction and expansion including markets, city jobs, technology, transplants and capital - in turn creating economic expansion. The author lists LosAngeles County as the perfect example of the import-replacement theory. The paper provides a short write up of the geographical range and economic influence of LosAngeles County and explains why LosAngeles is a city region that has successfully implemented Jacob's theory of import-replacement.
From the Paper "While many residents had never visited the devastated areas, these disasters reshaped the cities around them and the dominant social consciousness. In addition, the turn of events affected distant cities and regions. As businesses left the Los Angeles area, other cities were positively affected by the influx in economic prosperity. They responded as passive economies."
Abstract This paper examines how prostitution is slowly invading each nook and corner of LosAngeles and how a reformative solution is needed to give the people caught up in the ring of prostitution a new way of life. It outlines the present scenario in LosAngeles and details the problems and possible solutions. It evaluates how educating the deserted and outcast children on the issue would go a long way in preventing the birth of another generation of prostitutes and how rehabilitation by providing them with new opportunities to make them economically stable is the best method to eradicate prostitution from society.
From the Paper "Henry Pegeron, an experienced Los Angeles County Sheriff opines that effective control of the prostitution menace is only possible by a combined effort on the part of the cops and the local community. From his experience Pegeron recounts that invariably the prostitute is associated with other kinds of illegal activities like drug trafficking and selling. Henry also points out that in majority of the cases people are unwilling to get themselves involved in cases against the customers of the prostitutes and hence refrain from giving information to the cops. Unless community policing helps the cops get some concrete evidence of the illegal prostitute activity and their customers it will be of little use in eradicating prostitution."
Abstract A twentieth century event that was sparked by racial controversy was the LosAngeles riots following the not guilty verdicts of four white officers accused of beating black motorist Rodney King. The paper shows that the riots in April of 1992 caused extensive damage totaling in the hundreds of millions and caused the deaths of at least 45 persons. By far it was the worst civil unrest of this century, surpassing even the Watts riot of 1965 in terms of destruction and lives lost. The paper shows that beyond the physical and economic damage to L.A., was the damage to race relations caused by the riots. Even though the events of the Rodney King beating involved white officers and a black man, the riots knew no racial boundaries as almost every race was affected by the violence, looting and destruction of LosAngeles.
From the Paper "The officers justified their actions by stating they thought King was on the powerful mind-altering drug, PCP, but tests showed he only had alcohol in his blood (Wall, 2). In light of all this evidence, the all-white Simi Valley jury determined the officers were not guilty of any wrongdoing in the beating. Even though King may have resisted arrest and attempted to attack an officer, no human being or animal deserved such a beating. The television viewers; black, white, Latino, or Asians who saw the videotaped beating knew that this was excessive use of force and that King's civil rights had been violated by these officers."
Tags: George, Holliday, Simi, Valley, racism, Soul, Brother
Abstract This paper reviews and examines James Cain's "Mildred Pierce" and Nathanael West's "The Day of the Locust." Both authors give a detailed view of LosAngeles, which has been shaped by various writers over the years, as well as by film and television depictions of the city. The writer of this paper analyzes both authors' perception of 1930s L.A. which was a different sort of city than it is today. LosAngeles in the 1930s was a city beset by a corrupt administration in City Hall, a corrupt police department and a citizenry, affected as was the rest of the country, by the economic failures of the Great Depression. This paper reviews Nathanael West's "The Day of the Locust" which is a realistic portrayal of a sub-culture in Hollywood in the 1930s which includes a non-realistic vision of the horror hiding behind the surface in that society. The writer contends that in West's novel, Hollywood represents a target, the place where people flocking to the city believe their dreams can be fulfilled if only they could get hired and be seen by the public. The writer also discusses the issue of social class as an important motivating force in the plot of Cain's "Mildred Pierce." The writer of this paper details the plots and main characters of both novels.
From the Paper "Social class is an important motivating force in Mildred Pierce and is a particularly strong force in the life of Veda Pierce. Mildred, her mother, has fought to build a business in a world where women rarely manage to accomplish this feat, let alone do so with the success that Mildred achieves. The Los Angeles of this novel is the area to the north, with an area of old money in Pasadena upholding an old idea of social class, and with successful entrepreneurs like Mildred creating a new moneyed class emerging from the working world and suggesting the power of the American dream for those able to make it a reality. The denizens of Hollywood want the same thing with less overt work, while people like Mildred fight their way up from strength of character and personal talent."
Tags: hollywood, literature, review, analysis, depression, film, industry
