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Its 1769, and Spain is renewing their efforts to colonize what they called “Alta California” on the Pacific Coast.  Leading the push was Fray Junipero Serra, a Franciscan whose efforts to spread the Catholic faith would earn him the title “Apostle of California.”  His actions would also lead to a re-examination of the role of Europeans in colonizing and Christianizing the Indigenous peoples of the lands in which they arrived, so his legacy isn’t without controversy.  Today's episode of History: Beyond the Textbook, the first of three episodes on "The West,"  focuses on Fray Junipero Serra, the Pious Father-President of Alta California.

Key People
Fray Junipero Serra
Fray Francisco Palou
Kumeyaays
Cochimi

Key Events/Ideas
Colonization of California
Franciscan mission system

The third season of History: Beyond the Textbook focuses on the stories of individuals who shaped "America's Crucial Years" of 1783-1790, and runs from October 8-December 24. Catch up on Season One, "America's Colonial Era," and Season Two, "America's Revolution," wherever you listen to your podcasts!

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