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Why Did Native Americans Come to the California Missions?

By Damian Bacich

Why Did Native Americans Come to the Missions?

Native Americans came to the California missions for a variety of reasons. Some of these were: protection from their enemies, access to stable food sources, attraction to Spanish culture and religion, fear of Spanish weapons and a desire to stay together with their clans and kin. Were Native Americans Forced to Enter the California Missions? […]

Filed Under: Missions, Native American Life Tagged With: Native Americans, spanish missions

Serra Statues: Don’t Tear Down, Build Up

By Damian Bacich

  Junípero Serra’s statues are being defaced. Government institutions are seeking to remove his name from public monuments. All in the name of justice. Is there a better way forward?

Filed Under: California History Tagged With: Franciscans, Junipero Serra, Native Americans, spanish missions, vandalism

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