The Massive LA Disaster You've Never Heard Of
Caitlin Doughty・2 minutes read
The movie "Chinatown" is based on a true story of the 1930s Los Angeles water rights and land usage, involving the disastrous failure of the Saint Francis Dam and the role of William Mulholland in providing water to the city. The dam failure led to a devastating flood, highlighting racial divisions, survivor stories, and the need for improved dam safety regulations.
Insights
- The movie "Chinatown" is loosely based on the true story of water rights and land usage in 1930s Los Angeles, highlighting the historical significance of water management and infrastructure development in the region.
- The failure of the Saint Francis Dam in 1928, attributed to oversight and hubris, led to devastating consequences, with significant loss of life and property, underscoring the importance of stringent safety regulations for infrastructure projects to prevent such disasters.
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Recent questions
What caused the Saint Francis Dam disaster?
The failure was due to oversight and hubris.
Who played a crucial role in providing water to Los Angeles?
William Mulholland, an Irish immigrant.
How did the "Hello Girls" contribute during the flood?
They warned residents of the impending flood.
What was the death toll estimate of the Saint Francis Dam disaster?
Estimates range from 400 to 600 deaths.
What book is recommended for more stories related to the flood?
"Floodpath" by John Wilkman.