Colonial-era California refers to the time period when California was under Spanish and Mexican rule, from the 16th century until it became a part of the United States in 1848. During this time, Spanish missions were established in California with the purpose of converting indigenous people to Christianity and integrating them into Spanish society.
Related terms
Spanish Missionaries: Catholic priests who traveled to colonial-era California with the goal of converting indigenous people to Christianity.
Assimilation: The process by which individuals or groups adopt the customs, language, and culture of another group.
Secularization: The transition of mission lands from religious control to secular (non-religious) control.