Part Two: Daryl Gates: The Man Who Invented SWAT Teams and DARE

John Buntin's "L. A. Noir" explores the complex history of Los Angeles through the lens of two pivotal figures: gangster Mickey Cohen and Police Chief William H. Parker. The book delves into the city's origins as a morally and racially exclusive settlement, its rise as a boomtown, and the battle between organized crime and law enforcement that shaped its identity. It appeals to readers interested in mid-century America, film noir, gangsters, and police history.

In *City of Quartz*, Mike Davis delves into the complex history of Los Angeles, exploring how the city has been influenced by various powerful groups, including real estate boosters, the Protestant elite, Jewish Westside elites, homeowner groups, and the Los Angeles Police Department. The book critiques the city's development, highlighting issues of racial tension, economic inequality, and the transformation of Los Angeles into a 'fortress city' characterized by fear and surveillance. Davis also examines the impact of market forces on urban design and the lives of different classes, concluding with a study of the de-industrialized town of Fontana, which he terms a 'junkyard of dreams'.

In 'Chief: My Life in the LAPD', Daryl Gates reflects on his four decades with the LAPD, discussing his creation of the SWAT team and DARE program, as well as his involvement in major cases like the Watts riots and the Rodney King beating. The book offers insights into his policing style and the controversies surrounding his tenure. Gates also shares personal struggles and his perspectives on law enforcement challenges.