Mexican Independence and Alta California

In the early 1800s, California was part of Mexico, a Spanish colony. Many Mexicans sought independence due to unfair treatment and land distribution issues. Wealthy landowners feared Spain's democratic shift and funded an army against Spain. The Mexican War for Independence began, ending in 1821 with Mexico's independence and control over Alta California. Alta California was larger than today's California, including parts of Nevada, Utah, and Arizona. Mexican Independence Day on September 16 commemorates the start of the independence movement in 1810, highlighting California's historical ties to Mexico.

What was California's status in the early 1800s?

• A British colony

• A part of Mexico, a Spanish colony

• An independent nation

• A part of the United States

Why did some Mexican colonists want independence from Spain?

• To increase trade with Europe

• To join the United States

• To redistribute land from wealthy landowners

• To establish a monarchy

What was the concern of Mexico's wealthy landowners regarding Spain's government?

• It was increasing taxes

• It was becoming more authoritarian

• It was planning to abolish slavery

• It was becoming more democratic

How did the Mexican War for Independence begin?

• Through peaceful negotiations

• With the help of the United States

• By landowners funding an army

• By a sudden revolt of the colonists

What was the outcome of the Mexican War for Independence in 1821?

• Mexico became a British colony

• Mexico became an independent nation

• Mexico joined the United States

• Mexico remained under Spanish rule

What territories were included in Alta California?

• Only present-day California

• California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona

• California and Texas

• California and Oregon

What was the relationship between Alta California and Mexico?

• Alta California was a colony of the United States

• Alta California was a territory with some independence

• Alta California was a state of Mexico

• Alta California was fully independent

When is Mexican Independence Day celebrated?

• May 5th

• September 16th

• July 4th

• October 12th

Who called for Mexico's independence from Spain in 1810?

• Benito Juárez

• Simón Bolívar

• Father Miguel Hidalgo

• Pancho Villa

What does Mexican Independence Day remind Californians of?

• The end of the Mexican-American War

• California's rich history and cultural connections

• The discovery of gold in California

• The signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo