The Zoot Suit Riots were a series of violent confrontations in Los Angeles, primarily occurring between June 3 and June 8, 1943. They involved U.S. Navy sailors and Marines, who were stationed in the city during World War II, clashing with young Latino men, particularly those identified by their distinctive zoot suits. The zoot suit, characterized by its oversized, flamboyant style, became a symbol of youth culture and rebellion against the traditional norms of the time, particularly among marginalized communities. This cultural expression was viewed negatively by many, including the servicemen who found themselves in increasingly volatile and racially charged environments.The unrest was sparked by growing racial tensions, which were exacerbated by ongoing economic issues and service members’ fears about crime in the predominantly Latino neighborhoods of Los Angeles. On the night of June 3, a group of sailors attacked a local barrio, igniting violent confrontations. The conflict rapidly escalated as more sailors joined in, targeting zoot-suiters in the streets. Over the span of several days, thousands of sailors participated in the riots, while police often stood by or actively side with the assailants, leading to deeper grievances within the Latino community about the justice system and societal attitudes towards them.Local authorities and media's portrayal of the riots further fueled the unrest, portraying the Latino youth as criminals rather than victims. Ultimately, the Zoot Suit Riots highlighted the strained racial dynamics in Los Angeles and the growing discontent among minority groups within the context of World War II, particularly against the backdrop of a society struggling with its identity and values amid the pressures of war.