The oldest and arguably the most prestigious school in the University of California system is UC Berkeley, or “Cal,” as it is affectionately known by students and alumni. Berkeley - the city - grew up around Berkeley - the university - beginning in the mid-19^th century. University and city endured through Vietnam anti-war protests and brutal police confrontations, but turned out for the better with the founding of People’s Park. Fashion and social movements also have their birthplace at Berkeley. In national studies conducted for decades, the students and residents of Berkeley consistently measure as the most politically liberal people in the nation.