Spirit of the CCC
Historical marker location:Honoring Those Who Served in the Civilian Conservation Corps. 1933 - 1942
- March 31, 1933: President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the Emergency Conservation Work (ECW) Act into law, establishing the Civilian Conservation Corps as part of his New Deal program.
- April 5, 1933: The CCC is officially launched, providing employment opportunities for unemployed young men between the ages of 18 and 25.
- 1933-1942: The CCC enrolls over 2.5 million young men from economically disadvantaged families, providing them with jobs, vocational training, and relief during the Great Depression.
Camp Life: CCC enrollees live in camps located in rural areas and work on various conservation projects across the United States. They receive food, shelter, clothing, and a small wage, with a portion of their earnings sent back home to support their families.
Conservation Projects: The CCC undertakes a wide range of conservation projects, including reforestation, erosion control, trail construction, forest fire prevention, wildlife conservation, historic site restoration, and the development of public parks.
Collaboration with Other Agencies: The CCC works in collaboration with various federal agencies, including the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Soil Conservation Service, to implement conservation programs and projects.
Educational and Vocational Training: In addition to their work, CCC enrollees receive educational and vocational training, such as literacy classes, courses in conservation and forestry, and technical skills development.
Military Training: During World War II, the CCC shifts its focus to providing military training for its enrollees, preparing them for military service.
- July 1, 1942: As the United States transitions into wartime efforts and the economy improves, the CCC gradually loses its significance. The program officially ends with the termination of new enrollments.
The Civilian Conservation Corps played a significant role during the Great Depression, providing employment, relief, and skills training to young men while accomplishing vital conservation work across the country. The program's legacy can still be seen today in the numerous parks, forests, and other public lands that were developed or improved through the efforts of CCC enrollees.
The state's name is derived from a novel called "Las Sergas de Esplandián," which was published in 1510. The book, written by Garci Rodríguez de Montalvo, tells the story of a mythical island called California that is ruled by Queen Calafia and is said to be filled with gold and precious stones.
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.