While many history books are written about the history of California and like much of history and particularly the history of the United States, there is the good, the bad and the very ugly. But this blog is not about the political accounts of history but rather focuses on the Californio and the how they relate to the history of the architecture in California rather then one of political or historical accuracy or opinion. The Californios were the Hispanic people of California, particularly the descendants of Spanish and Mexican settlers from the 17th through 19th centuries before California was annexed by the United States. This group developed a distinct culture centered on large cattle ranchos and the vaquero (cowboy) tradition. The term refers to those who lived under Spanish and Mexican rule and is used today by some descendants to express pride in their heritage. 

The first settlers in California were children of Spanish military groups who built forts and started the mission system. Over time, these settlers and their descendants developed a unique culture in the relative isolation of Alta California. Many Californios became wealthy landowners through large land grants, often centered on cattle ranching. This lifestyle was deeply connected to the land and horsemanship, with the vaquero playing a central role. 

Californio culture was a blend of Spanish and Mexican traditions, including unique food, music, and social customs. Initially loyal to the Spanish crown, they later accepted Mexican independence from Spain. However, a growing sense of estrangement from the central government led to some resistance against Mexican-appointed governors in the 1840s. After the Mexican-American War, the United States took control of California. The U.S. government promised to honor land grants, but many Californios lost their land and social status due to legal and economic pressures from the influx of American settlers amongst other circumstances. Despite their decline in power, Californio descendants continue to use the term to identify with and celebrate their unique heritage. Fortunately, there are still buildings that have been preserved from this era. Unfortunately, much of the land and wealth they enjoyed was lost, due to many factors, including the fact that many of the soldiers and vaqueros didn't read or write English and having poor wealth management skills they often engaged in loans based on their land and either lost the land in foreclosures or sold it off at very cheap prices when times were hard.