In the 1st century, Los Angeles, a city with a rich and diverse history, has experienced significant milestones and transformations that have shaped its identity and physical landscape.
Political and Social Developments:
In 2002, Mayor James Hahn played a crucial role in defeating secession efforts by the San Fernando Valley and Hollywood, ensuring their continued integration within the city [80]. This decision underscored Los Angeles's unity and effective governance amidst regional challenges.
In 2022, Karen Bass made history by becoming the first female mayor of Los Angeles, marking a pivotal moment as the largest U.S. city to elect a woman to this position [81]. Her election symbolized a significant stride forward in local leadership, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity at the helm of city affairs.
Cultural and Sporting Events:
Los Angeles is slated to host the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games, becoming the third city globally to host the Olympics three times [82][83]. This prestigious event not only showcases the city's ability to organize large-scale international sports gatherings but also enhances its global reputation and infrastructure.
Geographical Features:
Encompassing a vast area of 502.7 square miles (1,302 km2), Los Angeles boasts diverse topography, including 468.7 square miles (1,214 km2) of land and 34.0 square miles (88 km2) of water [84]. Its expansive boundaries stretch 44 miles (71 km) from north to south and 29 miles (47 km) from east to west, covering a perimeter of 342 miles (550 km).
The city's terrain ranges from flat plains to hilly regions, with Mount Lukens rising as the highest point at 5,074 ft (1,547 m) in the San Gabriel Mountains [85][86]. The eastern extension of the Santa Monica Mountains separates the Los Angeles Basin from the San Fernando Valley, contributing to its varied landscape.
Surrounding the city, the majestic San Gabriel Mountains offer recreational opportunities and breathtaking vistas, with Mount San Antonio, also known as Mount Baldy, towering at 10,064 feet (3,068 m) [87]. Further east, San Gorgonio Mountain stands as the highest peak in Southern California, reaching heights of 11,503 feet (3,506 m).
Hydrology and Ecology:
The Los Angeles River, integral to the city's hydrology, spans 51 miles (82 km) and has been extensively managed with 51 miles (82 km) of concrete for flood control [88]. Originating from the Canoga Park district, the river flows eastward along the northern edge of the Santa Monica Mountains, meandering south through the city center before emptying into the Pacific Ocean at the Port of Long Beach.
The city's diverse habitats, including beaches, wetlands, and mountains, support a rich variety of native plant species. These include the California poppy, matilija poppy, toyon, Ceanothus, Chamise, Coast Live Oak, sycamore, willow, and Giant Wildrye, among others [89]. Despite conservation efforts, some species, such as the endangered Los Angeles sunflower, face challenges in their survival.
Los Angeles's official botanical symbols include the Coral Tree (Erythrina caffra) as its official tree, the Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) as its official flower, and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) as its official plant [90][91][92], highlighting the city's dedication to preserving and celebrating its diverse flora.
