In our show “Eight Flags Over California”, we review the history of conquest by Europeans in the state. We are primarily interested in summarizing the many governmental efforts by European nations at gaining ownership of California, and then the efforts to create democracy in the state. At the same time, it’s important to remember the genocide that took place against California’s indigenous peoples. These article are just a sample. Feel free to comment suggesting further articles or books with links whenever possible.

There are several articles you might read about the exploitation of the indigenous people by the missions of California.

Franciscans grapple with colonial legacy of Junípero Serra

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Misery at the Missions

Thorny Spanish Life for California Indians Described

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There are a number of articles about the genocide as it took place after the 1840s, mostly when California was under the American flag.

California Slaughtered 16,000 Native Americans. The State Finally Apologized For the Genocide.

California’s Genocide

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