G.A.R. Civil War Monument
Historical marker location:April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.
April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.
May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.
September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.
January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.
July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.
November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.
April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.
December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.
While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.
The first McDonald's restaurant was opened in San Bernardino, California in 1940 by Richard and Maurice McDonald. The fast-food chain went on to become one of the most successful in the world.
In 1781, a group of settlers known as the Los Pobladores founded the town of El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles, which would later become known as Los Angeles. The Spanish rule eventually gave way to Mexican control following their independence from Spain, and Los Angeles became part of Mexico.
With the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, the United States gained control of California, including Los Angeles County. The California Gold Rush of 1849 and the completion of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1870s brought an influx of people, promoting growth and development in the region.
By the early 20th century, Los Angeles County became a hub for the movie industry and emerged as a center for entertainment and innovation. The film industry played a significant role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of the county. Additionally, the completion of the Los Angeles Aqueduct in 1913 brought a reliable water supply, allowing for further expansion.
Today, Los Angeles County is the most populous county in the United States. It is known for its diverse population, ranging from various ethnic backgrounds to vibrant art scenes and technological advancements. With iconic landmarks such as the Hollywood Sign, the Getty Center, and the beaches of Santa Monica, Los Angeles County continues to be a significant cultural, economic, and entertainment center.
Los Angeles County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Los Angeles County, California.
- 1781: El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles, the settlement that would later become Los Angeles, was founded by Spanish governor Felipe de Neve.
- 1821: Mexico gained independence from Spain, and El Pueblo de los Ángeles became a part of Mexico.
- 1848: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, ending the Mexican-American War and transferring California to the United States.
- 1850: California was admitted as the 31st state, and Los Angeles County was established.
- 1876: The Southern Pacific Railroad arrived in Los Angeles, prompting significant population growth and economic development.
- 1884: The construction of the Los Angeles Aqueduct began, providing a reliable water supply and supporting further expansion.
- 1909: The Hollywood film industry began to take shape, leading to the rapid growth of the entertainment sector in Los Angeles.
- 1923: The first permanent film studio, Paramount Pictures, was established in Hollywood.
- 1932: The Olympic Games were held in Los Angeles, boosting the city's international reputation.
- 1942: During World War II, Los Angeles played a key role in the defense industry and experienced a population increase due to wartime manufacturing.
- 1965: The Watts Riots took place in Los Angeles, highlighting racial tensions and social inequality.
- 1984: Los Angeles hosted the Summer Olympics for the second time, showcasing the city's ability to hold major international events.
- 1994: The Northridge earthquake struck Los Angeles, causing significant damage and loss of life.