The Rodney King riots, also known as the Los Angeles Riots of 1992, began on April 29, 1992 and lasted for several days, largely ending by May 4, 1992.

Key Dates

• The riots started on April 29, 1992, after the acquittal of four Los Angeles police officers charged with the beating of Rodney King.

• The violence peaked over the first few days and subsided after military intervention, with order mostly restored by May 4, 1992.

Context

• The unrest began immediately after the verdict was announced and quickly spread throughout Los Angeles and other U.S. cities.

• Over the course of the riots, more than 50 people were killed and thousands were injured or arrested; damage estimates reached about $1 billion.

The Rodney King riots remain a significant historical event, reflecting tensions over racial justice and policing.