Water Wars and Economic Illusions

This chapter examines the economic development struggles of Victorville, California, focusing on the failed promises of growth fueled by speculative real estate practices and subprime mortgages. It highlights the complex dynamics of water rights, trading, and the impact of corporate interests on local communities, exposing the challenges faced by families displaced by urban gentrification. The narrative further explores California's historical water system, revealing the lasting implications of governmental policies on agriculture and socio-economic disparities in the region.