Thousand Oaks takes its name from the many oak trees that once blanketed the area. Originally home to the Chumash people, the land later became part of a Spanish land grant. In the 20th century, it transitioned from ranchland to a master-planned community. The city grew rapidly in the 1960s, attracting families and businesses while preserving its natural surroundings. Today, Thousand Oaks continues to honor its roots through conservation efforts, open space, and a deep respect for its rich cultural and ecological history.