( also infml LA )
the second largest city in the US and the largest in California , with about 9 million people. Its greater area covers 34 000 square miles (more than 88 000 square kilometres) in the southern part of the state on the Pacific coast, and is connected by the world’s largest road system. The city is famous for Hollywood and Beverly Hills and its tourist attractions include Sunset Boulevard , the Hollywood Bowl , Universal Pictures and Rodeo Drive . Los Angeles is one of the busiest US ports and is an important industrial centre.
The US captured the town from the Mexicans in 1846, and oil was discovered there at the end of the 19th century. Americans think of Los Angeles as an exciting city with many opportunities. But it is also seen as a dangerous place because of its earthquakes, pollution, traffic problems and race riots (= violent conflicts between people of different races).
See also King , UCLA .