26. The Los Angeles Riots (1992)
The Los Angeles Riots erupted after the acquittal of police officers in the beating of Rodney King, sparking days of upheaval across the city. Rooted in longstanding frustrations over police brutality, racial inequality, and economic hardship, the unrest left dozens dead and neighborhoods in ruins. Community leaders and activists responded with calls for reform, leading to changes in policing and greater attention to social justice issues.
