Summary
Ever wonder why so many places in California have Spanish names? It all goes back to the Mission Era, which started in the mid-1700s. Under threat from other European powers, Spain made a plan to protect its territory in Alta California: Send in the priests! Led by Junípero Serra, missionaries and soldiers came to convert the Native people and claim their land. Native Californians, like the Kumeyaay and the Chumash, had their own religions and ways of life—and most weren’t interested. But many were forced to convert under threat of violence or starvation. Twenty-one missions were ultimately built along the California coast. The impact on the Native peoples of California was catastrophic. But they fought back, preserving their culture for future generations. Press “play” to learn about this dark and complicated chapter in California’s history.
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching California Missions:
- What is one new thing you learned about california missions?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining california missions.
- Draw or give one example of your own.