Skip to Content
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Log In
Streetsblog USA

“Adam Ruins Everything” Explains the Origins of “Jaywalking”

Think the origins of "jaywalking" in 1920s car industry propaganda are too esoteric for a mainstream audience? Watch this clip from truTV's "Adam Ruins Everything" that adapts research from Peter Norton's Fighting Traffic, a history of how motordom conquered American streets in the early 20th century. It's a good sign when productions backed by the entertainment industry start devoting attention to topics like this.

Hat tip Michael Briggs.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog Los Angeles

Thursday’s Headlines

ICE, crosswalks, LB & Glendale speed cameras, LAPD, bike lanes, Councilmember Lee, Tesla, car-nage, and more

December 18, 2025

LAPD Shuts Down Volunteers Repainting Nadir Gavarrete Memorial at Koreatown Intersection

At the deadly 4th/New Hampshire intersection, LAPD shut down Crosswalks Collective L.A.'s unpermitted safe streets work

December 17, 2025

SGV Hikes and Bikes – Hacienda Hills

Steep, green, quiet, and foggy. Plus, it has an ADA trail.

December 16, 2025

Tuesday’s Headlines

National Guard, Long Beach speed cameras, Camino City Terrace, Ktown, Wilshire/Crenshaw, Santa Monica, parking, car-nage, and more

December 16, 2025

This Week in Livable Streets

Monrovia to Santa Monica Public Transit Adventure, and more

December 15, 2025
See all posts