The most recognizable sign in the world is likely the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles. Representing the neighborhood that is home to the largest concentration of entertainment in the world, it wasn't always meant to be that way. Originally, the movie industry was concentrated on the East Coast.
In the early 20th century, most film production was concentrated in New York and Chicago, but strict patent controls from Thomas Edison’s Motion Picture Patents Company made it difficult for independent filmmakers to thrive. To escape Edison’s control, many filmmakers headed west to California, where they found the freedom to innovate.
California, and specifically Hollywood, was chosen for several key reasons. First, the climate in Southern California provided nearly year-round sunshine, which was perfect for filming in an era when natural light was essential. The varied landscapes in the region—from beaches to mountains to deserts—also offered diverse backdrops for different types of scenes. Additionally, the distance from Edison’s influence on the East Coast made it easier for filmmakers to operate without the threat of legal action over patent issues.
In the beginning, it was not easy. The "movie people" were not well-received and often struggled to find housing. However, by the 1920s, Hollywood had officially become the home of cinema, and its population was exploding—as were the numbers of tourists seeking their favorite “players.” This is a story of how a simple decision to block innovation led to far-reaching consequences and transformed an entire industry
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