HOME > What Was the Original Name of Los Angeles?
Introduction
Los Angeles is a city that is known for its glitz and glamour, but its history is just as fascinating as its present. The city has a rich cultural heritage that reflects the diverse groups of people who have lived there over the centuries. One of the most interesting aspects of Los Angeles' history is its original name, which reflects the indigenous people who first inhabited the area.
The Tongva People
The original name of Los Angeles was not actually Los Angeles. The area was first inhabited by the Tongva people, who called the region Tovaangar. The Tongva were a Native American tribe who lived in the Los Angeles Basin and the Southern Channel Islands. They were skilled hunters and gatherers who lived in small villages and had a complex social structure.
Spanish Colonization
The Tongva people's way of life was disrupted in the late 18th century when Spanish explorers arrived in the area. The Spanish established a series of missions and settlements along the California coast, including the Mission San Gabriel Arcángel, which was founded in 1771. The Spanish named the area El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles de Porciúncula, which translates to 'The Town of Our Lady the Queen of Angels of Porciúncula.' This name was shortened to Los Angeles over time.
Mexican Rule
In 1821, Mexico gained independence from Spain and took control of California. The name Los Angeles remained in use during this period, but the city's identity began to shift as it became more integrated into Mexican culture. The city's population grew, and new neighborhoods and industries emerged.
American Expansion
In 1848, the United States won the Mexican-American War and took control of California. Los Angeles became part of the United States, and its identity continued to evolve. The city experienced rapid growth during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, fueled by the discovery of oil and the expansion of the film industry. Today, Los Angeles is a global center of culture, entertainment, and commerce.
Conclusion
The original name of Los Angeles reflects the city's rich history and the diverse groups of people who have lived there over the centuries. From the Tongva people to the Spanish colonizers to the Mexican and American rulers, Los Angeles has been shaped by a variety of cultural influences. Today, the city is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis that continues to attract people from all over the world.
