Nationally acknowledged as one of America’s greenest cities, Oakland is a major port
city on West Coast San Francisco Bay, Alameda County, California. Incorporated in
1852, the city is capital of the Alameda County and is a main commercial destination of
the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay.
The diversity of its population is only matched by the exuberance of its character.
A dynamic arts scene, Mediterranean climate, world-class tourist destinations, fun-
filled nightlife, soothing waterfronts, and historic buildings… name it! One of the most
ethnically integrated cities, Oakland is home to 100 languages and dialects.
History
Although founded only in 1852, Oakland’s history can be traced back to the native
Ohlone Americans that lived in the region for over 5,000 years, until the Spanish came
and settled in the area in 1770. After fifty years, other ethnic groups came with the onset
of the Gold Rush. This is the genesis of Oakland’s vaunted ethnic diversity.
There city is known for the oak groves that span across the entire lower East Bay. This
is actually where its name was taken from.
Landscape
With a panoramic amalgam of scenic neighborhoods by the hillside, creatively designed
structures, bustling waterfront, two inviting lakes, and many many more… Oakland is
a city built on a paradise. This is no less complimented by just the right weather every
summer, making the city a favored destination by many domestic and foreign tourists.
Arts
Home to perhaps the largest visual and performing art communities in the County if
not the entire West Coast, Oaklanders celebrate arts at every level in the city. Even
the tragic Earthquake of San Francisco in 1906 became an impetus of arts for the city
ushering in the erection of new architectural treasures. This is the precursor to the bold
imposing buildings that now grace the Oakland skyline.
Commerce
Now a major center of culture and commerce, Oakland has become a crossroad
where every trade route can meet. Industries including food processing, transportation,
software, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, and electrical and high technology
manufacturing have come to chose Oakland to be their national, or even international,
headquarters. This present a new paradigm in the city’s economics and a potential
inspiration as it recovers with the country from the present economic woes.
Oakland is an urban city, a nature paradise, a techno hub, a residential destination all
rolled into one. It has almost everything for anyone that chooses to stay in it, for a while
or for good.
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