In the late 19th century, city leaders believed the Los Angeles River and Arroyo Seco Creek would provide enough water for the growing region but as the population surged at the turn of the 20th century, it became clear this was not sustainable.  The city's rapid population growth and periodic droughts outstripped the local water supplies while devastating floods continued. 

Along with the tumultuous condition of the water supply bumpy waters were ahead in the struggle for labor rights in the Southland. Anti-Union business owners faced off against employees and organized labor fighting to earn a decent wage and protection from the newer and more dangerous industrial jobs transforming the country. This battle led to a string of deadly encounters between the two sides.