Course Catalog

A History of California

A History of California from 1533 to 1900 Major events in California’s early history (1533-1900) continue to shape how we experience California today. This brief and selective introduction to early California history begins by examining the lives of Native American in the region, the Spanish Exploration and the establishment of the Missions. In the mid-19th century came the Donner Party and the Mexican-American War. We will separate fact from fiction surrounding the Gold Rush, assess both the accomplishments and failures of the transcontinental railroad and address early ethnic conflicts. Finally, considering the development of the Progressive movement in historical context will expose us to some of the political trends that still influence the Great State of California today. Mark Sigmon has been a Lecturer in History at SFSU since 1995, specializing in the American West, Borderlands, and Native American History. He has also taught at Diablo Valley College, Mills College, San Jose State, and California State East Bay. He received his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley in 1995.

This class is not available at this time.

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