William Mulholland

William Mulholland was a civil engineer who designed and managed Los Angeles' modern water supply system in the early 20th century. He built an extensive aqueduct that brought water from the Owens Valley over the mountains, enabling the city’s rapid growth. His work transformed Los Angeles into a major city by providing reliable water access, but it also led to environmental and social issues, notably the Owens Valley water conflict. Mulholland is recognized for his engineering skill and vision, though his legacy is complex due to the consequences of his ambitious water projects.