Los Angeles has often been described as a melting pot of cultures, attracting communities from across the globe with its sunny climate and promises of opportunity.
During World War II, Jews and anti-Fascists were desperate to escape persecution from their homeland. Those who were able to break through incredibly harsh immigration policies attempted to build a new home here in California. Forced to uproot their lives overseas, German-speaking exiles arriving in Los Angeles were met with mandated curfews, Nazi sympathizers and antisemitism.
In uncovering the fundamental imprint these emigrés had on Hollywood, we came across countless images that illustrate their fight against persecution and the communities of artists and intellectuals that were formed in this unfamiliar, and often unwelcoming, place. The following images offer an acknowledgment of their perseverance and recognition for their fundamental contributions to American culture.
The cheeseburger was supposedly invented by Lionel Sternberger at The Rite Spot in Pasadena, when he added a slice of cheese to a regular beef burger and called it the "Aristocratic Hamburger." But the real history behind this fast food staple is a bit more complicated.
The opportunity to get and stay healthy was a major draw for people to both visit and move to Los Angeles — whether it was during the tuberculosis epidemic (a.k.a. the "forgotten plague") during the 19th century or the health and wellness boom of the early 20th century. Both of these topics are explored in Season 6 of the PBS SoCal Original Series Lost LA.
The onset of the spring season heralds the arrival of fragrant flowers in bloom — and all the critters that enjoy them, including the Easter bunny and families who anticipate his arrival with egg hunts, parades and questionable fashion choices.