In southern California during World War II, the extravagantly-tailored suits of young Mexican-Americans, with broad shoulders, huge lapels, narrow peg pants and wingtip shoes, clashed with the all-American austerity of the war. KCRW’s Eric Roy takes a look back at 1940s Los Angeles and the improbable flash point that became known as the Zoot Suit Riots.
The story you just read is not locked behind a paywall because listeners and readers like you generously support our nonprofit newsroom. If you’ve been thinking about making a donation, this is the best time to do it. Your support will get our fundraiser off to a solid start and help keep our newsroom on strong footing. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!