Rodney King was an African American man who became widely known after being brutally beaten by police officers in Los Angeles in 1991. The incident was captured on video and sparked national outrage, highlighting issues of police brutality and racial discrimination in the United States. The subsequent trial of the officers involved led to their acquittal in 1992, which triggered the Los Angeles Riots. These riots lasted several days and resulted in significant property damage and loss of life, further intensifying discussions about race relations and law enforcement practices in America.