5 Things You Didn’t Know About Compton CA

Last year, the city of Compton CA found itself in headlines all over the world thanks to the success of the NWA biopic, Straight Outta Compton. For years, the city has been well-known as the hometown for several of raps most influential rappers, and hip-hop fans everywhere have credited Compton with putting the West coast on the map. However, aside from the music, Compton has a rich history that many people gone completely unaware of. Sure, there are bigger and more well-known cities all across the state, but Compton is a pretty interesting place. If you thought music was the only thing the city has to offer, you’re in for a real treat. Here are five things you didn’t know about Compton CA.

One of the oldest cities in Los Angeles county

Founded in 1888, Compton CA is one of the oldest cities in the United States. In fact, it was the eight city in the county to incorporate, and it quickly become a popular place for settlers, especially due to its proximity from Los Angeles. Over the years, Compton’s location has continued to play a very important role in its growth, and its economy. Despite the city’s negative reputation, the population has grown every decade since its founding, and its interesting history continues.

 (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

The setting for some episodes of The Fresh Prince of Bel Air

During the 90s, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air was one of the most popular sitcoms on TV. The story of West Philly native, Will Smith, going to live with his aunty and uncle and Bel Air had captured the attention of millions of viewers. However, while the main setting of the show was the affluent community of Bel Air, some of the show’s episodes were actual set in Compton CA, where Will’s friend, Jazzy Jeff lived. Of course, there was a notable difference between Jazz’s neighborhood and the Banks’, and the show definitely played up on the stereotype of Compton’s violence.

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Once popular and affluent 

These days, Compton CA is most well-known for being a city terrorized by gangs in violent crime. Aside from issues that were displayed in Straight Outta Compton and other films, even those who lives nowhere near the city have heard of some of the awful things that have happened there. However, that wasn’t always the case. There was once a time when Compton was a sought after suburb full of upper and middle class residents. However, during the late 60s and early 70s, much of the city’s white population fled due to integration and desegration, and as a result, took their tax dollars with them.

 (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Known as an “Entrepreneurial Hot Spot” 

Moving to Compton may not seem like a smart business decision to some. However, don’t let the city’s reputation fool you. Compton was recently voted as an “entrepreneurial hot spot” and it is now one of the best places in the country to start a business. The city has programs to provide small business owners with the resources they need to grow and be successful, and there are several businesses who are headquartered in Compton.

(Photo by Patrick Lux/Getty Images)

Home to several museums 

Compton CA may be one of the last places you’d expect to be full of art and culture, but this is exactly why you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Compton is home to a half-dozen museums including the Tomorrow’s Aeronautical Museum which features interactive exhibits, flight lessons, and even gang intervention programs to help combat local crime.

image via yelp.com

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