Fullerton

Fullerton is a city located in Orange County, California, United States. With a population of approximately 135,000 people as of 2020, it is one of the largest cities in Orange County and serves as a significant cultural, economic, and educational hub.

Introduction

Fullerton is situated about 25 miles southeast of Los Angeles and is part of the larger Los Angeles metropolitan area. The city has a diverse economy, with major industries including healthcare, education, and tourism. Fullerton is also known for its rich cultural scene, featuring a variety of museums, theaters, and art galleries.

History/Background

The area now occupied by Fullerton was originally inhabited by the Tongva Native American tribe. In 1851, the city was founded as a small agricultural community, with the establishment of the Fullerton Ranch. The name "Fullerton" was derived from a local rancher named Joel H. Fullerton.

Early Development

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Fullerton experienced significant growth and development, driven by the expansion of the citrus industry and the construction of the Southern Pacific Railroad. The city's population grew rapidly during this period, and it became an attractive destination for settlers and entrepreneurs.

World War II

During World War II, Fullerton played a significant role in the war effort, with several military installations located within the city limits. The nearby Mather Army Air Field was converted into the Mather Air Force Base, which became a major training center for pilots and aircrew.

Civil Rights Movement

Fullerton has also been at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement. In 1968, the city was one of several locations where protests against the Vietnam War took place, including a notable confrontation between police and anti-war activists.

Key Concepts

Economy

The economy of Fullerton is diverse and includes major industries such as healthcare, education, and tourism. The city is home to several major employers, including the University of California, Irvine Medical Center, and Kaiser Permanente.

Education

Fullerton is served by the Fullerton Joint Unified School District, which operates a number of public schools within the city limits. The city is also home to California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), which has a significant impact on the local economy and culture.

Culture

Fullerton has a rich cultural scene, featuring a variety of museums, theaters, and art galleries. The city is also known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous venues hosting live performances throughout the year.

Technical Details

Air Quality

The air quality in Fullerton is generally considered to be good, with an average annual concentration of 22 parts per million (ppm) of particulate matter (PM2.5). However, the city has experienced periods of poor air quality due to wildfires and other pollution sources.

Transportation

Fullerton is served by several major highways, including Interstate 5 and State Route 57. The city is also connected to Los Angeles via public transportation, including buses and trains operated by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA).

Applications/Uses

Tourism

Fullerton is a popular tourist destination, with attractions such as the Fullerton Arboretum, the Fullerton Museum of Art, and the historic downtown area. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Fullerton Jazz Festival and the Fullerton Summer Concert Series.

Education

Fullerton is home to several major educational institutions, including California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) and the Fullerton Union High School District. The city's education system serves over 70,000 students annually.

Impact/Significance

Cultural Significance

Fullerton has a significant cultural impact on the surrounding region, with numerous cultural institutions and events contributing to its vibrant arts scene.

Economic Impact

The economy of Fullerton has a significant impact on the larger Los Angeles metropolitan area, with major industries such as healthcare and education driving economic growth and job creation.

Related Topics

Orange County History

Fullerton is part of Orange County, California's history and development. For more information, see the article on Orange County.

Citrus Industry

The citrus industry has played a significant role in Fullerton's history and economy. For more information, see the article on the Citrus Industry.

References/Further Reading

External Links

• Fullerton, California
• City of Fullerton Website
• California State University, Fullerton

References

• [1] "Fullerton, California." Encyclopedia of the American West. 2013.
• [2] "History of Fullerton." City of Fullerton Website.
• [3] "Orange County History." Orange County Historical Society.

Citations

• [1] Encyclopedia of the American West. 2013.
• [2] City of Fullerton Website.
• [3] Orange County Historical Society.