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Oakland, city (1990 pop. 372,242), seat of Alameda co., W Calif., on the eastern side of San Francisco Bay; inc. 1852. Together with San Francisco and San Jose, the city comprises the fourth largest metropolitan area in the United States. A containerized shipping port and a major rail terminus, Oakland has shipyards, chemical plants, glassworks, food-processing establishments, and a growing number of high-technology companies. Manufactures include steel items, pharmaceuticals, computers, electrical equipment, and automobiles. The San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge was opened in 1936 and connects Oakland with other nearby cities. Oakland is the headquarters and hub of the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART; opened 1972), a three-county rapid transit system that connects to San Francisco and other area communities. It also has an international airport.
An earthquake on Oct. 17, 1989, which struck during a World Series game in the San Francisco Bay area, resulted in severe damage in Oakland. The earthquake's toll took 62 lives and injured thousands; major repair and reconstruction efforts immediately ensued. In 1991, a wind-driven fire devastated the city's northeastern section. Redevelopment since the 1970s has focused on Oakland's waterfront area.
Of interest are the Oakland Museum, Chabot Space and Science Center, the Morcom Rose Garden, and Jack London Square. The city has a symphony orchestra, notable parks, a state arboretum, a children's amusement park, and a zoo. It is the seat of Mills College, Holy Names College, California College of Arts and Crafts, Laney College, and Merritt College. The city is home to the Athletics (American League baseball), the Raiders (National Football League), and the Golden State Warriors (National Basketball Association). Jack London lived in Oakland.
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