Las Vegas began as a small desert oasis in the 19th century, with its first recorded settlement established in 1905. The arrival of the Las Vegas Railroad in 1911 helped the area grow, and it was officially incorporated as a city in 1911. The construction of Hoover Dam in the 1930s brought thousands of workers, further boosting the local economy. The post-World War II era saw Las Vegas transform into a major entertainment hub, with the opening of iconic casinos like the Flamingo in 1946. The city became known for its vibrant nightlife, gambling, and shows, solidifying its reputation as the "Entertainment Capital of the World."