California Dreaming: The Rise of Billy Garland

This chapter explores the life of Billy Garland, a charming real estate developer, and his role in promoting Los Angeles as the host city for the Olympics during the 1923 International Olympic Committee meeting. It juxtaposes his optimism against the backdrop of America's social injustices, particularly the Scottsboro Boys case, and highlights the systemic racism prevalent in the U.S. political landscape. The narrative captures the tension between tradition and modernity while reflecting on the moral implications of hosting a global event amidst such domestic turmoil.