In Spanish, Los Angeles means 'the angels'. The Chumash and Tongva historically occupied Los Angeles
before Juan Rodrguez Cabrillo claimed it for Spain in 1542.
Founded by Spanish governor Felipe de Neve on September 4, 1781, the city is one of the oldest cities in the nation.
In 1848, Los Angeles was bought in return for the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ended the Mexican–American War.
The United States gained control of this part.
LA became a city in 1850, and California became a state in 1850.