Final answer:
The Church of Scientology was founded by L. Ron Hubbard in 1952, with the first official church established in Los Angeles, California, in 1954.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Church of Scientology was founded by L. Ron Hubbard in 1952. The first official church was established on February 18, 1954, in Los Angeles, California, more specifically, in the neighborhood of Hollywood. This church's founding aligns with a period in American history known for new religious movements and alternative religions becoming more prominent, especially in places like Hollywood which is known for its openness to diverse ideas and cultures.
The Church of Scientology has since grown internationally with a strong emphasis on celebrity followers and has become a subject of discussion and controversy.