California

Historic sites, pollution, mountains, palm trees, shark attacks, ancient forests, movie stars and much more! California is known for having it all. America’s most populous state has a packed and interesting history ready for discovery.

History of California

Most archaeologists assume that California’s human history began around 10,000 years ago. Settlers who had crossed the Bering Strait from Asia fanned out across the Americas, coming into what is now California. The area had a high diversity of native lifestyles due to its unique landscape. Coastal tribes engaged in fishing, mountain tribes hunted and gathered, while desert tribes gathered around oases and scratched out a living on the dry earth. California was top dog in population even in that time period; roughly 1/3rd of all Native Americans in what is now the United States lived in California when Europeans arrived.

Joshua Trees and interesting rocks at Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California.

European occupation came about as explorers filtered into California during the 1500s. The Spanish, Portuguese, Russians and later Americans all vied for trade here. In 1821, California became a part of Mexico after the Mexican War of Independence. Shortly thereafter, Californians declared themselves an independent republic in 1846 (the Bear Flag Republic) before being annexed by the United States after the Mexican War. 1848 saw a backwater California become an immigration lighting rod, as shiny yellow rocks found in the Sierra Nevada Mountains kicked off the California Gold Rush. Eager to receive the tax money and population from the booming area, the United States fast-tracked California to statehood by 1850. The Golden State remained in the Union during the American Civil War.

Mission San Juan Capistrano founded by the Spanish in the 1700s.

Since 1850, California’s population has grown, as have its industries. Its cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco boomed in the years after World War II, promising ample opportunity to immigrants from across the Pacific and North America. The growth of the entertainment industry in Hollywood brought aspiring artists in from everywhere, hoping for their big shot at fame.

Today, California remains America’s most populous state, an economic powerhouse, and one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Beaches, mountains, and active preservationists make California a veritable historic gold mine.

Travel Tips for California

California is a vast state with varied landscapes; it was built to be seen by car. With that being said, traffic in Los Angeles is notorious for having some of the world’s worst congestion.

Don’t leave valuables in your car. Some California cities are notorious for car break-ins.

Gas is expensive, but some gas stations are cheaper than others. Try to buy in the suburbs and not downtown.

Southeastern California is a vast desert. Fill up your gas tank before entering and carry some extra water and food in your car.

 

Attractions

Check out where I have been in California and other places I haven’t been to but look awesome (maroon color). Click on the links for posts for the places I’ve been!

 

Check out all these posts on California!


Lassen

Bumpass Hell. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

Volcanos, hot springs, mud pots and the rich smell of rotten eggs. Check out California’s Yellowstone! Continue reading

Redwoods

Lady Bird Johnson Grove. Redwoods National Park, California

Redwoods is more than just one park. There’s a whole bunch of them to explore! Continue reading

Route 1: Santa Cruz to Glass Beach

Sonoma Coast State Park.

A whole lot of Route 1 driving and a whole bunch of coastal stops along the way.  Continue reading

Route 1: Coastlines and Elephant Seals

Morro Rock. Morro Bay, California

This journey along the California coast features wonderful beaches, craggy cliffs and shouting elephant seals! Continue reading

Pinnacles

Pinnacles National Park. California

My 100th update brings you California’s amazing Pinnacles National Park! Continue reading

Hiking the Valley of Death

Ubehebe Crater. Death Valley National Park. California

Unique geology, beautiful canyons and a desolate desert, Death Valley National Park has a ton of hiking opportunities. Continue reading

Return to the Valley of Death

Keane Wonder Mill and Mine. Death Valley National Park

An unexpected trip takes me back to Death Valley for more exploration. Continue reading

The Valley of Death

Racetrack, Death Valley National Park, California

Explorations of Death Valley National Park, the driest and hottest area of the United States. Continue reading

Goodbye to 2018

Hopi Point, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona.

Saying goodbye to a very interesting year.  Continue reading

Wandering San Diego

Old Point Loma Lighthouse. Cabrillo National Monument. San Diego, California

Explore the history of this Southern California city. Continue reading

Wandering LA

Santa Monica beach. California.

Explorations of the City of Angels and the surrounding area. Continue reading

Wandering San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge. San Francisco, California

Explorations of the City by the Bay. Continue reading

Sequoia and Kings Canyon

Sequoia National Park, California

Explore two national parks (and a national forest) full of giant trees and amazing views.  Continue reading

Endless Desert

Kelso Dunes, Mojave National Preserve, California

Explore California’s Mojave National Preserve and all its awesomeness.  Continue reading