Torrance is a city located in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, California. The area was originally inhabited by the Tongva people before Spanish settlers arrived in the 18th century. The land was later acquired by the Dominguez family through a Spanish land grant in 1784.

In 1910, Jared Sidney Torrance, a real estate developer, purchased a large parcel of land from the Dominguez family with the intention of creating a new industrial and residential community. He formed the Torrance Company and began developing the land, building roads, installing utilities, and creating parks and public spaces.

The city was officially incorporated on May 12, 1921, and was named after Jared Torrance. At the time of incorporation, the city had a population of about 2,000 people. In the following decades, the city grew rapidly, with new industries and businesses moving in and a surge in residential development.

During World War II, Torrance was a hub for the aerospace industry, with companies like Northrop, Lockheed, and Hughes Aircraft setting up operations in the city. The city also had a significant Japanese American population, many of whom were sent to internment camps during the war.

In the post-war years, Torrance continued to grow and attract new industries, including automotive and electronics companies. The city also became known for its excellent schools and high quality of life.

Today, Torrance is a diverse city with a population of over 145,000 people. It is home to several major employers, including Honda, ExxonMobil, and Torrance Memorial Medical Center. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with a number of museums, art galleries, and performing arts venues.