Final answer:
Los Angeles had a unique evolution influenced by its mid-20th century spread as an automobile city, distinct historical events such as the boom in key industries, and its physical and socio-political landscape that shaped its urban morphology differently than cities like Chicago or Detroit.
Step-by-step explanation:
Los Angeles (L.A.) distinguishes itself from cities such as Chicago and Detroit due to its unique development patterns, core industries, and physical geography which began in the 20th century. When automobile ownership became common, L.A. transformed into a sprawling metropolis supported by a vast highway system, leading it to be known as an automobile city. The city’s development is closely tied to several key historical events, including the arrival of the railroad, the growth of the port facilities at San Pedro, the explosion of the citrus and oil industries, and the boom in the movie and aeronautical industries thanks to its favorable weather. These elements fostered a decentralized urban layout, creating a different societal landscape compared to more centralized cities developed on different transportation regimes.
Furthermore, L.A.'s growth was also shaped by significant migration patterns and the implementation of policies such as Spanish water law, which provided it with an advantage over neighboring areas. As a result, Los Angeles evolved with distinct economic, social, and political characteristics that were not present in other cities like Detroit, which was defined by the automobile industry, or Chicago, known for its meatpacking enterprise. The recursive relationship between L.A.’s urban morphology and its political culture led to considerable differences in public transportation, housing, culture, and politics, which are still evident when comparing it with other cities such as San Francisco.