Before the Spanish arrived in California, Santa Monica was home to the Tongva people. They lived in the area for over 7,000 years and had their own way of life. However, after the Spanish arrived, they brought with them diseases that the Native American tribes had never been exposed to. As a result, many of the Tongva people died from diseases such as smallpox, tuberculosis, and measles.
Along with the Native American tribes, many soldiers also died in Santa Monica during the Mexican-American War in 1847. The soldiers died in a battle known as the Battle of Santa Monica, which was fought between the United States and Mexico. The battle lasted for three days, and many soldiers from both sides died.
As the city developed in the early 20th century, the city’s population grew, and with it, the number of deaths also increased. Many people died from natural causes, but some met their end in tragic ways. One such person was Rebecca Zahau, who was found hanging from a balcony at the Spreckels Mansion in 2011. While the death was initially ruled a suicide, the case was reopened in 2018, and the cause of her death remains a mystery.
Another famous death in Santa Monica was that of Marilyn Monroe. She died in 1962 at her home on Fifth Helena Drive in Brentwood, which is a neighboring city to Santa Monica. However, many people still visit Santa Monica, hoping to catch a glimpse of her ghost at the Hotel Shangri-La, where she often stayed.
Other notable deaths that occurred in Santa Monica include the murder of O.J. Simpson’s ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman. They were both found dead in 1994 at Nicole’s Brentwood home, just a few miles from Santa Monica.
While these deaths have shaped the history of Santa Monica, the city remains an attractive place to live and visit. The city’s attractions, including the Santa Monica Pier and beaches, continue to draw people from all over the world. Despite the city’s tragic history, it has managed to remain a vibrant and beautiful place that has something to offer for everyone.
In conclusion, Santa Monica’s history is one that is full of tragedy, from the native tribes that first inhabited the area to modern-day celebrity deaths. However, the city continues to thrive, providing a haven for people who want to visit or live in Southern California. While the past cannot be changed, Santa Monica serves as a reminder that even amidst tragedy, life can go on, and new beginnings can emerge.