Frontline Season 11 Episode 18 LA Is Burning: 5 Reports from a Divided City
- April 27, 1993
Frontline season 11 episode 18, titled "LA Is Burning: 5 Reports from a Divided City," takes an in-depth look at the 1992 Los Angeles riots, which were sparked by the acquittal of four LAPD officers in the brutal beating of Rodney King.
The episode features five different reports, each examining a different aspect of the riots and their aftermath. The first report focuses on the day of the verdict, and follows a group of activists as they protest the outcome. The second report looks at the violent aftermath of the riots, which left more than 50 people dead and cost the city over a billion dollars in damages.
The third report examines the LAPD's use of force during the riots, and features interviews with police officers and experts who discuss the tactics used by law enforcement. The fourth report takes a more personal look at the riots, telling the story of one family who lost everything in the chaos.
Finally, the fifth report explores the social and economic factors that contributed to the riots, including poverty, unemployment, and racial tensions. Through interviews with residents of South Central Los Angeles, the report sheds light on the underlying issues that led to the uprising.
Overall, "LA Is Burning: 5 Reports from a Divided City" offers a comprehensive look at one of the most significant events in recent American history. Through its varied and nuanced perspectives, the episode helps viewers to better understand the complex causes and effects of the Los Angeles riots.