Includes bibliographical references (pages 191-198) and index.
Contents:
Introduction: Californios under three flags -- Taking possession of Alta California: the Portolá Expedition -- The Naval Department of San Blas -- Missions and missionaries -- Ranchos -- Presidios and soldiers -- Pueblos and their inhabitants -- A pirate attack on Monterey -- The Old Spanish Trail -- Californio men and Californio women -- Foreigners in Alta California -- Governing the Californios -- Californios in the U.S.-Mexican War of 1846/1848 -- Land titles -- Kaleidoscope of Californio events -- Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo -- The eclipse of the old Californio order: from rancho to barrio -- Opinions on the Californios and their works -- Three young Californio women -- Conclusion: six calamities of Californio life.
Summary:
"Before the Gold Rush of 1848-1858, Alta (Upper) California was an isolated cattle frontier--and home to a colorful group of Spanish speaking, non-indigenous people known as Californios. Many traces of their culture remain in California today. Drawing on firsthand contemporary accounts, the author chronicles the rise and fall of Californio men and women"-- Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.