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The Legacy of Old Money: Families That Shaped California
The Gilded Age of American history often conjures up images of robber barons and their extravagant lifestyles, but what many overlook is the concurrent transformation taking place in cities like Los Angeles. While the East Coast thrived on debauchery and financial dominance, the West was experiencing a quiet cultural and social renaissance. In this exploration, we dive into the pioneering families that would shape Southern California's destiny, focusing on dynasties such as the Dhini, Huntington, Irvine, and Ringe families, each notable for their wealth, influence, and remarkable transformation of the Californian landscape.