As Los Angeles expanded during the late 19th century, it began outgrowing its water supply. So, city officials decided to build a pipeline north and slurp up all the precious snow melt from the Sierra Nevadas bleeding Owens Valley dry. The resident farmers in the area didn't take kindly to this threat against their livelihood and conflict soon popped off with the help of an abundance of dynamite and the backing of a local (potentially mob run) bank.

Subscribe to the Softcore History Patreon for hundreds of hours of extra history content including listener history questions, history movie watch-alongs, and weekly bonus episodes.

Look for Liquid Death’s healthy beverages on Amazon or at a store near you. AND Softcore History listeners get 20% off their first Liquid Death apparel purchase available exclusively at LiquidDeath.com/SOFTCORE

Go to ghostbed.com/drinkinbros and use code DRINKINBROS for 30% off EVERYTHING (Mattresses, Adjustable Base, and more) -- plus a 101 Night Sleep Trial and Mattresses Made in the USA!

Head to FACTORMEALS.com/softcore50 and use code softcore50 to get 50% off. That’s code softcore50 at FACTORMEALS.com/softcore50 to get 50% off!

1stphorm.com/softcorehistory Free shipping on all orders over $75 when you use the link.