This book studies Los Angeles County and its government since World War II, with special focus on the "Titans of Temple Street," the five-member Board of Supervisors that determines policies and actions for many issues throughout the county, especially for residents who do not live in the county's 88 cities. Today, it is the largest of all U.S. counties, with a population of more than 10 million, more residents than 41 states, and an annual budget of more than $35 billion, more than all but 19 states. It has served as an innovative example of county government on since the early 1900s.