Rancho Period of California

What did the Mexican government do with the mission lands when they gained control of California? Why?

They closed the missions to replace the Spanish settlements with Mexican ranchos run by citizens of Mexico.

What big events happened at the Ranchos each Spring?

They had many fiestas, horse competitions, and round ups where the Ranchos would brand the new born calves.

Who is John A. Sutter? What did he have that helped U.S. Pioneers?

A business man who owned the sawmill where gold was first discovered. Sutter's Fort is where U.S. Pioneers lived.

What is diseno?

A hand drawn map that tells the Mexican government what land you are requesting and what you plan to do with the land.

What is a Trapper? What animal did they trap, and what did they ultimately forge for Pioneers?

A trapper traps animals for money. They trapped mainly beavers. They forged the first trails through the Rocky Mountains.

Explain what happened that ended the Rancho Period?

A war between the U.S. and Mexico resulted in the U.S. getting land from Mexico that was 2 times the size of California and then becoming U.S. territory..

What is the Bear Flag Revolt?

An event during the Rancho period where U.S. citizens called the Bear Flaggers arrested Vallejo and took California from Mexico.

Who could get a land grant?

Any Mexican citizens, including women, could get a land grant.

What animal served as the main focus on a rancho?

Cattle

During the rancho period, who is the President of the USA?

James K. Polk

What were the vaqueros really good at doing from working all day long?

Riding and roping

Why was life good for the Rancho owners?

The Indians were given jobs as farm hands, and the land owners had lots of land and animals.