Gender and the Business of Prostitution in Los Angeles, 1850-1940
Prostitution in Los Angeles has a long and high-profile history. The story of its evolution from a single red-light district, largely run by women, to a corporate vice industry dominated by men and organized crime can tell us much about the development of urban America. In her highly nuanced study, Kooistra examines race and gender dynamics alongside issues of government and police corruption, commerce and larger changes in society. It will be of interest to those studying American history, crime, sex and gender.