A Brief History of Los Angeles

De: Derek Monaghan

Narrado por: Dani Thompson

From ancient Tongva lands to the global stage of the Olympics and Silicon Beach, A Brief History of Los Angeles offers a vivid, cinematic journey through the evolution of one of the world’s most complex cities. Author Derek Monaghan blends historical clarity with emotional resonance, tracing LA’s transformation across ten immersive chapters.

Explore the city’s Indigenous roots, Spanish colonization, and Mexican ranchos. Witness the rise of oil empires, the engineering of water, and the birth of Hollywood’s dream factory. Navigate the racial tensions, uprisings, and cultural revolutions that shaped its identity. From jazz and punk to hip-hop and activism, Los Angeles emerges as a city of sound, struggle, and reinvention.

This insightful narrative captures the spirit of LA—its contradictions, resilience, and mosaic of futures. Whether you're a history lover, cultural explorer, or urban storyteller, this audiobook invites you to see Los Angeles not just as a place, but as a living story.

©2025 Derek Monaghan (P)2025 Derek Monaghan

A great overview of how Los Angeles evolved

My wife was born and raised in Los Angeles, but I have only visited the city a few times. We both gained a great deal in terms of understanding the forces that developed the city. We were especially pleased by the narration that motivated us both to listen carefully to a well-research and interesting story. Ms. Dani Thompson, not only narrated the book, the authority in her voice indicated she clealy understands and appreciates all the complex strands of Los Angeles history and culture. It was a pleaure to listen to the book.

Great Audiobook

Good short history of Los Angeles, worth your time. Excellent Narration, well paced. look forward to other books in this series.