New (2015) book on the opening of Alta Calif. by the Spanish (Europeans, origin)

[Escort Rider]

Just finished reading an excellent new book, "The Forgotten Governor - Fernando de Rivera and the Opening of Alta California" by John Wills, c 2015. This first ever biography of Rivera is meticulously researched but not dry or dull. Rivera clashed with Father Serra, who comes off as petty and vindictive, as did other Califonria governors in the early days.

I never realized how few Europeans (Spanish) there were in California in the early days of the missions. Rivera defended missions spread out over 400 miles with an absurdly small number of Spanish soldiers - a few score total (not a few score at each mission and presidio). I also never realized to what extent the civil and religious authorities were often at cross purposes. (Yes, I am certainly no specialist in this area!)

I live within walking distance of the San Gabriel Mission, and it was an odd feeling for me to read of the various comings and goings at that mission at a time when there was not yet even a small settlement called Los Angeles. (That came not long afterwards - in 1781).

[CA4Now]

Thanks for the recommendation; it looks interesting.
John Wills | The Forgotten Governor

[Escort Rider]

Originally Posted by CA4Now

Thanks for the recommendation; it looks interesting.
John Wills | The Forgotten Governor

And thank you for providing that link, which gives a bit more information than I provided in my original post. It is indeed interesting, but is also a very serious work of scholarship and research which makes clear the nature of the sources and explains when sources conflict.

[LiaLia]

Have started to get really interested in California history. Especially regarding the indigenous people, the Africans, and the Spaniards.