Drunk History season 3 episode 9 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

Los Angeles' chaotic early days, marked by lawlessness and the eventual formation of the LAPD, set the stage for a narrative intertwining Hollywood's rise with Rin Tin Tin's stardom and the ambitious yet flawed efforts to secure water for the city's growth. Rin Tin Tin's journey from a war discovery to a Hollywood legend, alongside the controversial creation of the L.A. aqueduct by William Mulholland and Fred Eaton, showcases the ambition, transformation, and enduring legacy of Los Angeles' development. The city's complex history is mirrored in its law enforcement origins, the golden era of Hollywood, and the ambitious infrastructural projects that shaped its future.

Full Episode S03E09 Recap

### Introduction to Los Angeles' Chaotic History - Los Angeles is depicted as the Wild West, a lawless and chaotic place where violence and alcohol fuel the early dynamics of the city. - Seth Weitberg narrates the creation of the LAPD amidst the lawlessness, highlighting the need for a police force due to the escalating violence and anarchy. ### The Formation of the LAPD - Andres Pico's defiance and the formation of a vigilance committee mark the beginning of community-led law enforcement. - Judge Benjamin Hayes' attempts to establish a formal police force are initially resisted, leading to a period of vigilante justice and widespread violence. - The narrative transitions to Lee Duncan's story with Rin Tin Tin, illustrating the unexpected rise of Hollywood's first superstar from the aftermath of World War I. ### Rin Tin Tin's Hollywood Journey - Lee Duncan discovers Rin Tin Tin in France during WWI, setting the stage for the dog's future stardom. - Rin Tin Tin's extraordinary abilities are showcased at a Pasadena Dog Show, leading to his film career and significant impact on Warner Brothers' success. - Rin Tin Tin's popularity and the controversy over the first Academy Award highlight Hollywood's golden era and the dog's enduring legacy. ### The Development of Los Angeles - The story shifts to the creation of the L.A. aqueduct by William Mulholland and Fred Eaton, addressing the city's critical need for water. - The controversial and manipulative tactics used to secure water rights and the eventual construction of the aqueduct are detailed. - The catastrophic failure of the St. Francis Dam and its impact on Mulholland's career encapsulate the ambitious yet flawed efforts to sustain Los Angeles' growth. ### Conclusion - The recollections of drunken narrators intertwine tales of law enforcement origins, Hollywood's first star, and the ambitious projects that shaped Los Angeles. - Each story reflects on the themes of ambition, transformation, and the complex relationship between law, entertainment, and infrastructure development in L.A.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the first judge of Los Angeles?

Judge Benjamin Hayes.

What led to the formation of the LAPD?

The escalating violence and anarchy in early Los Angeles necessitated the formation of a police force.

Who was Rin Tin Tin?

Rin Tin Tin was a dog discovered by Lee Duncan in France during WWI, who became Hollywood's first superstar.

How did Rin Tin Tin impact Warner Brothers?

Rin Tin Tin's movies were hugely successful, significantly boosting Warner Brothers' financial success.

What was the controversy at the first Academy Awards?

Rin Tin Tin won the best actor vote but was replaced by Emil Jannings in a recount to maintain the award's legitimacy.

Who was William Mulholland?

William Mulholland was the head of the L.A. city water company and played a key role in creating the L.A. aqueduct.

What was the purpose of the L.A. aqueduct?

The aqueduct was built to transport water from the Owens Valley to Los Angeles, addressing the city's critical water shortage.

How did Fred Eaton contribute to the aqueduct project?

Fred Eaton helped secure the water rights and land necessary for the aqueduct's construction through controversial means.

What was the outcome of the St. Francis Dam disaster?

The dam's failure resulted in numerous deaths and marked the downfall of William Mulholland's career.

How did Rin Tin Tin's death impact the public?

Rin Tin Tin's death was a significant event, leading to nationwide mourning for the beloved Hollywood star.

Watch Drunk History season 3 episode 9 Online

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