Tom Bradley’s Inauguration as Mayor of Los Angeles

On May 29, 1973, Tom Bradley was inaugurated as the 38th mayor of Los Angeles, becoming the first African American to hold this position in a major U.S. city with a predominantly white population. This historic event marked a significant milestone in the political landscape of Los Angeles and the United States.

Background

Tom Bradley was born on December 29, 1917, in Calvert, Texas. He moved to Los Angeles in his youth. Bradley joined the Los Angeles Police Department in 1940, serving for 21 years, a period during which he attended night school at Southwestern University and the University of California, Los Angeles. His career in law enforcement ended when he decided to pursue a political career, and he was elected to the Los Angeles City Council in 1963.

Key Events Leading to Inauguration

Bradley’s rise to mayor was catalyzed by his advocacy for civil rights and his platform that promised to bridge racial divides in Los Angeles, improve city infrastructure, and enhance public safety. He first ran for mayor in 1969 but was unsuccessful. His second campaign in 1973, however, succeeded with a broad coalition of African American, Latino, and white liberal voters.

Bradley’s victory was notable in the context of racial tensions in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. The Watts Riots of 1965, a violent civil disturbance in Los Angeles, were indicative of the city’s racial tensions and socioeconomic disparities. Bradley’s election was seen as a hopeful sign of progress and reconciliation.

The Inauguration

During his inauguration, Bradley emphasized themes of unity, inclusivity, and progress. He embarked on a journey to transform Los Angeles into a world-class city by promoting policies that supported economic growth, job creation, and infrastructural development.

Aftermath and Significance

Bradley’s tenure as mayor lasted for an unprecedented five terms, from 1973 to 1993, making him the longest-serving mayor in Los Angeles history. His administration was marked by significant expansion and development within the city, including the construction of the Los Angeles subway and facilitating the 1984 Summer Olympics.

Bradley’s legacy is profound, not only transforming Los Angeles into a more diverse and economically vibrant city but also paving the way for future African American leaders in urban politics across the nation. His election and successful terms in office are often cited in discussions about the slow but continued progress towards racial equality in American political life.