| Beyond the Fences: The Creation of Community in Los Alamos, New Mexico, examines the historical development and evolution of Los Alamos from its inception in 1943 as a secret military installation to build the world's first atomic bomb to modern day and its continuing role within the scientific military industrial complex of the American West. After the war's end and the security fences isolating and protecting the town were torn down, Los Alamos sought to transform itself into a community like any other postwar community in the American landscape. Given its past, however, can Los Alamos blend into mainstream America, escaping its atomic shadow? Its history, physical geography, economic climate, and demographics have worked together to create a unique community. Societal trends and urban development theories will be examined to determine their influence in shaping the region. Despite similarities to existing urban areas, Los Alamos is a society like no other. Its demographics, land use patterns, and economy have produced a community that defies classification. |
