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Land Grants in Alta California
The story of land ownership in modern California begins with the practice of Spanish land grants. Beginning in the 18th century, Spain allowed farming and ranching by private individuals in California. In the 19th century the Mexican government continued and expanded the program. Land Laws in Spain The laws and customs about who could own land and how it could be used in Alta California originated in medieval Spain. The most important medieval law code was called the Siete Partidas or “Seven Chapters,” by King Alfonso X of Castile (1221–1284). Alfonso was known as El Sabio or “The Wise,” because not only did he write laws, but he ordered the translation of works of…
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How Did the California Missions End?
The California missions ended after Mexico became independent of Spain. The newly independent Mexican government eventually passed laws that called for an end to the mission system through a process called “secularization.” Secularization: The end of the Spanish missions in California To visit the California missions today is an impressive experience. The church buildings, gardens and grounds are beautiful and well-maintained, and harken back to an earlier, more romantic period. Museum displays tell of the history of the missions, and gift shops offer all sorts of keepsakes to take with us. But if we were to travel back in time to a little over 100 years ago, we would probably…
